Hadith #10624

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Nobody gains anything from his worldly life except that which he spends on others.

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of selflessness and generosity in the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ukhrahu) "أُخْراهُ" refers to "others" or "those besides oneself." It encompasses all individuals who are in need, whether they are family members, friends, neighbors, or even strangers. The word (min) "مِنْ" denotes possession or ownership, indicating that whatever we spend on others becomes a part of our true wealth and gains in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261:

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 concept of spending in the way of Allah, which includes helping others and fulfilling their needs. Just as a single seed can yield a bountiful harvest, our acts of generosity and selflessness can bring about immense blessings and rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through such acts that we truly gain and prosper in this world and the Hereafter.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80:

And say: My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's support and guidance in all our endeavors. When we spend on others, we are seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and relying on His support to navigate through life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder that the true purpose of our worldly possessions is not to accumulate wealth for ourselves, but to utilize it for the betterment of others. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

When we spend on others, we cultivate a sense of empathy, compassion, and selflessness within ourselves. This leads to a more harmonious and just society, where the needs of the less fortunate are met, and the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood are strengthened. Moreover, our acts of kindness and generosity inspire others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of goodness and positive change.

Conversely, if we hoard our wealth and neglect the needs of others, we become slaves to our possessions and desires. This selfish attitude not only deprives us of the blessings and rewards promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but it also hinders our personal growth and spiritual development.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the true gains and benefits of our worldly life lie in selflessly spending on others. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations as Muslims but also attain spiritual growth, blessings, and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us strive to be generous and compassionate individuals, seeking Allah's support and guidance in all our endeavors, and contributing to the betterment of society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to embody the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and live a life of selflessness and generosity.