Hadith #2512

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "كَفى بِالمَيْسُورِ رِفْداً۔" which translates to,

It is enough of a donation to give what is [readily] available.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims regarding acts of charity and generosity.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The term (kafā) "كَفَى" means "it is enough" or "sufficient." It signifies that giving what is readily available is sufficient and acceptable in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (bil-maysūr) "بِالمَيْسُورِ" refers to what is easily accessible or within one's means. It implies that one should not burden themselves by giving beyond their capacity, but rather give what they can comfortably afford.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the principles of moderation and balance emphasized in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not expect us to go beyond our means or capabilities. Therefore, giving what is readily available is not only sufficient but also in accordance with the divine wisdom.

Furthermore, the Quran encourages acts of charity and generosity throughout its verses. 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 reward and blessings that come from giving in the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that even small acts of charity hold great value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is not the quantity of the donation that matters, but the sincerity and intention behind it. Muslims should not feel discouraged if they are unable to give large sums of money or possessions. Instead, they should focus on giving what they can, even if it seems insignificant.

This Hadith also emphasizes the importance of accessibility and ease in acts of charity. Islam is a religion that promotes ease and facilitation in matters of worship and good deeds. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:78),

And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not burden us with unnecessary hardships in our religious obligations.

By encouraging Muslims to give what is readily available, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is promoting a culture of generosity and compassion. Even the smallest acts of charity, such as giving a smile, offering kind words, or helping someone in need, can have a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. These acts of kindness not only benefit the recipients but also purify the hearts of the givers and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that giving what is readily available is sufficient and pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us of the importance of moderation, accessibility, and sincerity in acts of charity. Muslims should not underestimate the value of even the smallest acts of kindness, as they hold immense rewards and blessings. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) enable us to embody the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to be generous and compassionate individuals.