Hadith #10625

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who gives with a short arm is given with a long arm.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries a deep meaning and holds valuable lessons for all Muslims.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The phrase

gives with a short arm

refers to someone who is stingy, reluctant, or hesitant in giving to others. This person holds back their wealth, resources, or assistance, failing to fulfill their duty of helping those in need. On the other hand,

given with a long arm

signifies the generous and open-handed person who willingly and abundantly gives to others, fulfilling their obligation of charity and kindness.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, which provides guidance on the virtues of generosity and the consequences of stinginess. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261:

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the immense reward and blessings that come from giving in the way of Allah. Just as a single seed yields a bountiful harvest, the act of giving generously multiplies the blessings and benefits for the giver. By holding back and being stingy, one deprives themselves of the abundant rewards promised by Allah.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the consequences of stinginess in Surah Al-Isra, verse 29:

Do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse highlights the negative consequences of being stingy and miserly. When one clings tightly to their wealth, refusing to share it with others, they become spiritually and morally constrained. Their hearts become hardened, and they are criticized and condemned by society. Moreover, their wealth loses its value and purpose, rendering them spiritually bankrupt.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be generous and selfless in their actions. It encourages us to extend our hands and give abundantly, without hesitation or reluctance. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings but also reap the rewards and blessings promised by Allah.

This Hadith also teaches us about the character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself. Known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified the qualities of generosity and selflessness. His life serves as a shining example for all Muslims, inspiring us to follow in his footsteps and emulate his noble character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of generosity and selflessness in Islam. It urges us to give abundantly and without hesitation, knowing that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will reward us manifold. May we all strive to be like Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and embody the spirit of giving, for it is through our generosity that we attain spiritual growth and bring about positive change in the world.