Hadith #5701

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May 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, "الصَّدَقَةُ تَقي۔" This concise statement translates to "Charity protects." Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (sadaqah) "صَدَقَة" in Arabic refers to acts of charity or giving. It encompasses various forms of benevolence, such as giving money, food, or any form of assistance to those in need. The term (taqiyy) "تَقِيّ" means protection or safeguarding. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the protective nature of charity.

The Quran emphasizes the significance of charity in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:274), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Those who spend their wealth [in Allah's cause] by night and by day, secretly and publicly - they will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.

This verse highlights the rewards and protection that come with giving in the cause of Allah.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan - it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.

This verse emphasizes the multiplication of rewards for those who engage in acts of charity, further highlighting the protective nature of giving.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, "Charity protects," holds profound wisdom. When we engage in acts of charity, we not only benefit those in need but also safeguard ourselves from various harms and difficulties. Let us explore the implications of this Hadith.

Firstly, charity protects us from the love of material possessions and greed. When we give to others, we detach ourselves from the material world and prioritize the well-being of others. This act of selflessness helps us overcome the negative traits of avarice and selfishness, leading to spiritual growth and contentment.

Secondly, charity protects us from the punishment of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The act of giving is an expression of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us. By sharing our wealth with those in need, we acknowledge that our possessions are a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and that we are accountable for how we utilize them. This consciousness protects us from the consequences of misusing or hoarding our wealth.

Furthermore, charity protects us from the negative effects of societal inequalities. When we give to those who are less fortunate, we contribute to the establishment of a just and compassionate society. By addressing the needs of the marginalized, we help alleviate their suffering and create an environment of empathy and solidarity. This protection extends to the entire community, fostering harmony and social cohesion.

Moreover, charity protects us from the spiritual diseases of arrogance and self-centeredness. When we engage in acts of giving, we humble ourselves before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and recognize that all blessings come from Him. This humility helps us develop a sense of empathy and compassion towards others, eradicating the negative traits that hinder our spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "Charity protects" holds immense significance for Muslims. It reminds us of the transformative power of giving and its protective nature. Through acts of charity, we not only benefit those in need but also safeguard ourselves from spiritual diseases, societal inequalities, and the punishment of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us strive to embody the spirit of charity and experience the blessings and protection it brings into our lives.