Hadith #464

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "غايَةُ المَكارِمِ الإيثارُ۔" This can be translated into English as:

The highest of noble traits is self-sacrifice.

Let us delve into the meaning of this profound Hadith by examining the key words and their implications. The word (ghayah) "غاية" refers to the ultimate or highest level, while (al-makarim) "المكارم" signifies noble traits or virtues. Finally, (al-i'thar) "الإيثار" means self-sacrifice or placing others before oneself.

To understand the significance of self-sacrifice as the highest noble trait, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 ayah highlights the virtue of self-sacrifice and the importance of placing others before oneself. The early Muslims of Madinah, known as the Ansar, welcomed and supported the Muhajirun, the immigrants from Makkah, despite their own limited resources. They preferred the needs of their fellow Muslims over their own, demonstrating the essence of self-sacrifice.

Another verse that emphasizes the significance of self-sacrifice is found in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9):

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

In these verses, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) praises those who selflessly provide food to those in need, without expecting any reward or gratitude. This act of self-sacrifice is done solely for the sake of Allah, reflecting the highest level of noble traits.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of self-sacrifice as the pinnacle of noble virtues. It encourages Muslims to prioritize the needs of others over their own desires and interests. Self-sacrifice entails giving without expecting anything in return, whether it be material possessions, time, or emotional support.

By embodying self-sacrifice, Muslims can foster unity, compassion, and empathy within their communities. It leads to a society where individuals are willing to go above and beyond for the betterment of others, creating an environment of mutual support and care.

Furthermore, self-sacrifice is not limited to material possessions alone. It extends to sacrificing one's time, knowledge, and skills for the benefit of others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), renowned for his wisdom and knowledge, exemplified this trait throughout his life. He would generously share his knowledge and insights with others, seeking to uplift and educate those around him.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of self-sacrifice as the highest noble trait. It calls upon Muslims to prioritize the needs of others over their own, following the examples set by the early Muslims and the teachings of the Quran. By embodying self-sacrifice, Muslims can foster a society characterized by unity, compassion, and mutual support. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice self-sacrifice and attain the highest levels of noble virtues.