Hadith #9720

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the virtue of magnanimity and generosity in our interactions with others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that it is a sign of magnanimity when one goes out of their way to help others when they are asked for something, and when they themselves ask for something, they should lighten their requests.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (muruwwah) "مُرُوَّةِ" refers to magnanimity, nobility, and generosity. It encompasses the qualities of being kind, compassionate, and selfless in one's actions towards others. The word (tatakallafa) "تَتَكَلَّفَ" means to go out of one's way or to put in extra effort. On the other hand, (tukhaffifa) "تُخَفِّفَ" means to lighten or reduce one's requests or demands.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of generosity, kindness, and selflessness in our interactions with others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:195)

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good

This verse highlights the importance of spending in the way of Allah and doing good deeds, which includes being generous and kind to others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:29)

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

This verse cautions against being miserly or extravagant in one's actions. It encourages moderation and balance in our dealings with others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran. When someone asks us for help or assistance, it is a sign of magnanimity to go out of our way to fulfill their needs. This could involve sacrificing our time, resources, or even personal comfort. By doing so, we demonstrate our compassion and selflessness, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt.

Likewise, when we find ourselves in need and have to ask others for assistance, it is important to lighten our requests. This means being considerate of the capabilities and circumstances of the person we are asking. By doing so, we show humility and respect for others, avoiding burdening them beyond their means. This practice fosters a sense of harmony and mutual support within the Muslim community.

The consequences of practicing this Hadith are manifold. On an individual level, it cultivates a spirit of generosity, compassion, and humility within us. It allows us to develop strong bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood with our fellow Muslims, as we prioritize their needs and well-being. This Hadith also promotes a harmonious and supportive society, where individuals are willing to help one another without hesitation or expectation of reciprocation.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the profound wisdom and knowledge possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His teachings and actions serve as a guiding light for Muslims, inspiring us to embody the noble qualities of magnanimity and generosity. By following his example, we can strive to create a more compassionate and caring society, in line with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the guidance of the Quran in our daily lives. May He bless us with the virtues of magnanimity, generosity, and humility, and enable us to be a source of goodness and support for our fellow Muslims.