Hadith #1341

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

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

لايَشْبَعُ المُؤْمِنُ وأخُوهُ جايعٌ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion within the Muslim community. Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (mu'min) "مُؤْمِنُ" refers to a believer, someone who has faith in Allah and follows His guidance. The term (akhuhu) "أخُوهُ" means "his brother," indicating the bond of brotherhood and sisterhood that exists among Muslims. The word (jayi'un) "جايعٌ" translates to "hungry," symbolizing not only physical hunger but also the broader concept of deprivation and need.

This Hadith highlights the selflessness and concern that should be inherent in the heart of a true believer. It reminds us that a believer's satisfaction and contentment cannot be complete while their fellow Muslim is suffering or in need. It calls upon us to actively seek ways to alleviate the hunger and deprivation of our brothers and sisters in faith.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the essence of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., the Ansar] and [adopted] 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 beautifully illustrates the selflessness and generosity of the Ansar, the companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) in Medina. They welcomed and supported the Muhajirun, the emigrants from Mecca, despite their own limited resources. Their love for their fellow Muslims was so profound that they preferred them over themselves, even when they themselves were in need. This exemplifies the spirit of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:70), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And indeed, [O Muhammad], We have honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

This verse highlights the inherent value and honor bestowed upon all human beings by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). As believers, we are entrusted with the responsibility to recognize and uphold the dignity of our fellow Muslims. We are called upon to share the blessings and provisions that Allah has bestowed upon us, ensuring that no one among us is left hungry or deprived.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of our duty as Muslims to actively engage in acts of charity, kindness, and support for one another. It encourages us to go beyond our own needs and desires, extending a helping hand to those who are less fortunate. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligation to our fellow believers but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of unity and solidarity within the Muslim community. It reminds us that we are all part of a larger family, bound by the common thread of faith. When we prioritize the well-being of our brothers and sisters, we strengthen the bonds of love and unity, fostering a sense of belonging and harmony within the ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and selflessness within the Muslim community. It urges us to be aware of the needs of our fellow believers and to actively strive to alleviate their hunger and deprivation. By embodying the spirit of this Hadith, we can contribute to the establishment of a just and caring society, reflecting the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah guide us all to embody the true essence of this Hadith and grant us the ability to support and uplift one another.