Hadith #2450

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

Praise be to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ), his family, his companions, and the righteous ones who followed in their footsteps.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

One who gives in cases that are undeserving fails to give [the rights] to those who are deserving.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of giving to those who truly deserve it, and refraining from giving to those who do not.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words and their implications. The word (gives) "أعْطى" signifies the act of giving or bestowing something upon someone. The word (in cases that are undeserving) "غَيْرِ الحُقُوقِ" refers to situations where the recipient does not have a rightful claim to what is being given. And finally, the word (fails to give) "قَصَّرَ" implies a deficiency or shortcoming in fulfilling the rights of those who are deserving.

To further elucidate the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking sustenance and provisions from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the ultimate Provider. It reminds us that it is Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) who bestows upon us what we truly deserve.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:25), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

We sent aforetime our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that people may stand forth in justice.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in all aspects of life, including the distribution of wealth and resources. It reminds us that we should give to those who are deserving and uphold their rights, as prescribed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Based on the above Quranic verses, we can understand the wise message behind the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). It teaches us that it is our duty as Muslims to ensure that our giving is guided by justice and righteousness. We should not give to those who do not have a rightful claim to what is being given, as this would result in a failure to fulfill the rights of those who are truly deserving.

For example, if someone were to give their wealth to someone who is known to be dishonest or engages in unlawful activities, they would be failing to give to those who are truly deserving, such as the poor, the needy, and the oppressed. By giving to the undeserving, they would be perpetuating injustice and neglecting the rights of those who are in dire need of assistance.

Conversely, if someone were to give their wealth to the rightful recipients, such as the orphans, the widows, and the impoverished, they would be fulfilling their duty as Muslims and upholding the principles of justice and compassion. They would be ensuring that their giving is directed towards those who truly deserve it, thereby fulfilling their rights and alleviating their suffering.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the importance of giving to those who are deserving. It urges us to reflect on the true recipients of our charity and to ensure that our giving is guided by justice and righteousness. By doing so, we fulfill our duty as Muslims and contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our actions and enable us to fulfill the rights of those who are deserving.