Hadith #10626

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of giving charity and highlights its significance in the life of a Muslim. Let us delve into the exegesis of this thought-provoking saying in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (infāq) "إنفاق" and (iktisāb) "اكتساب". "إنفاق" refers to spending or giving in charity, while "اكتساب" means acquiring or accumulating wealth. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that we are more in need of giving charity from what we have earned than accumulating more wealth.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns perfectly with the guidance of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving in charity and the benefits it brings to the individual and society. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 63:10)

And spend in the way of Allah from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.'

This verse highlights the urgency of giving in charity before it is too late. It reminds us that our wealth is a temporary blessing and that we should utilize it for the betterment of others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) echoes this sentiment by emphasizing the need to prioritize charity over accumulating wealth.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us that giving in charity purifies our wealth and increases our blessings. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:261)

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 beautifully illustrates the concept of (infāq) "إنفاق" mentioned in the Hadith. Just as a seed multiplies and brings forth abundant harvest, our wealth multiplies when we spend it in the way of Allah. By giving in charity, we not only benefit others but also increase our own blessings and rewards.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that true wealth lies in giving and sharing with others. It encourages us to be generous and selfless, recognizing that our material possessions are temporary and that the real value lies in the good we do with them.

By prioritizing charity over accumulation, we develop a mindset of gratitude and contentment. We learn to detach ourselves from the materialistic world and focus on the spiritual and humanitarian aspects of life. This shift in perspective leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful existence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of giving in charity and prioritizing it over the accumulation of wealth. It aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the benefits of charity and the temporary nature of worldly possessions. By following this guidance, we can cultivate a mindset of generosity, gratitude, and contentment, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to give generously and make us among those who prioritize charity in their lives.