Hadith #9175

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the noble qualities of a person with a generous and forgiving nature. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its meaning and drawing upon the teachings of the Quran to further illuminate its significance.

The Hadith begins with the statement,

When a noble-minded person is able [to take revenge] he forgives.

Here, the term "noble-minded" refers to an individual who possesses a high moral character and a generous disposition. This person, when faced with the opportunity to seek revenge, chooses instead to forgive. This act of forgiveness is a manifestation of their noble nature and their ability to rise above personal grievances.

The Quranic teachings emphasize the importance of forgiveness and its virtues. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins - and who can forgive sins except Allah? - and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.

This verse encourages believers to seek forgiveness from Allah and to forgive others, recognizing that forgiveness is a quality that belongs to Allah alone.

The second part of the Hadith states,

When he gains possession [of something] he grants generously.

Here, the term "gains possession" refers to acquiring wealth or resources. The noble-minded person, upon acquiring wealth, displays generosity and shares their blessings with others. This act of giving is a reflection of their selflessness and their recognition that wealth is a means to benefit society as a whole.

The Quranic teachings also emphasize the importance of generosity and charity. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 highlights the immense rewards and blessings that come from spending wealth in the path of Allah, emphasizing the importance of generosity and selflessness.

The final part of the Hadith states,

When he is asked [for something] he accords [it].

Here, the term "asked" refers to requests made by others for assistance or support. The noble-minded person responds to these requests with kindness and compassion, readily providing what is asked of them. This act of granting reflects their empathy and their willingness to help those in need.

The Quranic teachings also emphasize the importance of helping others and responding to their needs. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the obligation to help the needy and to treat others with kindness and respect.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us about the noble qualities of forgiveness, generosity, and compassion. It encourages us to embody these virtues in our interactions with others, reflecting the teachings of the Quran. By forgiving when we have the power to seek revenge, giving generously when we acquire wealth, and responding to the needs of others with kindness, we can strive to be noble-minded individuals who follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and fulfill our duty as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and may He bless us with His mercy and forgiveness.