Hadith #10957

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

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

ما حُفِظَتِ الأُخُوَّةُ بِمِثْلِ المُواساةِ۔

This can be translated as,

Nothing preserves brotherhood like financial support [in times of need].

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (hufizat) "حُفِظَتِ" in the Hadith refers to the preservation or safeguarding of something. It implies the act of protecting and maintaining the strength and unity of brotherhood. The term (al-ukhuwwah) "الأُخُوَّةُ" means brotherhood, which encompasses the bond of love, compassion, and mutual support among Muslims.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that financial support plays a crucial role in preserving brotherhood. This support is not limited to monetary assistance alone but extends to any form of aid that helps alleviate the burdens and difficulties faced by our fellow Muslims.

The Quran provides numerous verses that highlight the importance of financial support and its impact on fostering brotherhood and unity within the Muslim community. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9):

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the selflessness and generosity of the Ansar (the residents of Al-Madinah) towards the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Makkah). Despite their own hardships and limited resources, the Ansar prioritized the needs of their fellow Muslims and supported them wholeheartedly. This act of financial support not only strengthened the bond of brotherhood but also led to the success and prosperity of the Muslim community.

Another verse that emphasizes the importance of financial support is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

In this verse, Prophet Musa (Moses) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) supplicates to Allah for sustenance and support. This highlights the recognition that financial stability and assistance from Allah are essential for individuals to fulfill their responsibilities and contribute to the well-being of society. By providing financial support to our brothers and sisters in need, we emulate the example of Prophet Musa (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strengthen the fabric of brotherhood within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us of the profound impact that financial support can have on preserving and strengthening brotherhood. When we extend a helping hand to our fellow Muslims during times of need, we not only alleviate their suffering but also foster a sense of unity, compassion, and solidarity within the Ummah.

Financial support can manifest in various forms, such as providing monetary assistance, offering food and shelter, helping with education or healthcare expenses, or even lending a listening ear and emotional support. It is a means through which we demonstrate our love for the sake of Allah and fulfill our duty towards our fellow Muslims.

Moreover, financial support has far-reaching consequences beyond immediate relief. It empowers individuals, enabling them to overcome their challenges and contribute positively to society. It instills a sense of gratitude and appreciation in the hearts of those who receive support, fostering a culture of reciprocity and mutual care within the Muslim community.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of actively seeking opportunities to provide financial support to our brothers and sisters in need. By doing so, we contribute to the preservation of brotherhood, the strengthening of our community, and the fulfillment of our responsibilities as Muslims.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to support one another in times of need and preserve the bond of brotherhood within the Muslim Ummah. May He bless us with the means and resources to be a source of comfort and relief for our fellow Muslims. Ameen.