Hadith #2546

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 and noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

مَنْ بَذَلَ مالَهُ اِسْتَرَقَّ الرِّقابَ۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

One who gives generously enthrals the people.

Let us delve into the meaning of the important words in this Hadith. The word (badhala) "بَذَلَ" means to give or donate. It signifies an act of selflessness and generosity, where one willingly and wholeheartedly offers their wealth or possessions for the benefit of others. The word (malahu) "مالَهُ" refers to one's wealth or possessions, encompassing both material and financial resources. And the word (istaraqqa) "اِسْتَرَقَّ" can be translated as "enthralls" or "captivates." It signifies the effect that the act of giving has on the hearts and minds of people, as it captivates their attention, admiration, and respect.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtues of generosity and giving in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), Allah says:

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 beautifully illustrates the concept of giving and its consequences. Just as a single seed multiplies into a bountiful harvest, the act of giving generously multiplies the rewards and blessings for the giver. It not only benefits the recipients but also brings about spiritual growth and abundance in the life of the giver.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7), Allah states:

Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.

This verse highlights the correlation between belief, spending in the way of Allah, and the promise of a great reward. It emphasizes that true faith is manifested through acts of generosity and selflessness. When one gives generously, they not only fulfill their duty as successors of the Prophet (ﷺ) but also attain immense rewards and blessings from Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. When a person selflessly gives their wealth for the sake of others, it captivates the hearts and minds of the people around them. This act of generosity becomes a source of inspiration and admiration, as it reflects the noble qualities of compassion, empathy, and selflessness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry immense weight and significance. Through this Hadith, he reminds us of the transformative power of giving and the impact it has on individuals and society as a whole. By giving generously, we not only fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings but also inspire others to follow the path of generosity and compassion.

The consequences of practicing this Hadith are far-reaching. When individuals in a community embody the spirit of selflessness and generosity, it fosters a culture of empathy, unity, and social welfare. It creates an environment where people support and uplift one another, leading to the overall betterment of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound impact that generosity and selflessness can have on individuals and society. By giving generously, we not only enthrall the hearts of people but also fulfill our duty as believers and successors of the Prophet (ﷺ). Let us strive to embody the spirit of this Hadith and make a positive difference in the lives of others through our acts of generosity and kindness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to give generously and inspire others to do the same.