Hadith #4749

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ظَلَمَ السَّخاءَ مَنْ مَنَعَ العَطاءَ۔

This can be translated as,

He who holds back from giving has oppressed generosity.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of generosity and the consequences of withholding it.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words used. The word (zalam) "ظَلَمَ" means to oppress or do injustice. (sakhā') "السَّخاءَ" refers to generosity, which is the act of giving freely and abundantly. And (man mana'a) "مَنْ مَنَعَ" means to hold back or prevent.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the virtue of generosity and the importance of giving to others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261, Allah 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 with being generous and giving in the cause of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 274, Allah states,

Those who spend their wealth [in Allah's way] 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 emphasizes the importance of giving both openly and in secret, indicating that true generosity is not limited to public displays but encompasses all acts of giving, regardless of how they are done.

Now, let us delve into the essence of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. When he says,

He who holds back from giving has oppressed generosity,

he is highlighting the negative consequences of withholding generosity. By refraining from giving, one not only denies others the blessings and benefits of receiving, but also oppresses the very essence of generosity itself.

Generosity is a quality that stems from kindness, compassion, and selflessness. It is an attribute that reflects the character of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), who is the Most Generous. When we hold back from giving, we are essentially denying ourselves the opportunity to emulate the divine attribute of generosity and to manifest the inherent goodness within us.

Moreover, withholding generosity can have far-reaching consequences. It can lead to a lack of trust and unity within society, as people become reluctant to help one another. It can also hinder personal growth and spiritual development, as generosity is a means of purifying the soul and increasing one's proximity to Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of practicing generosity in all aspects of life. Whether it is through financial contributions, acts of kindness, or sharing knowledge, we are encouraged to give freely and abundantly. By doing so, we not only benefit others but also cultivate a sense of gratitude, humility, and spiritual fulfillment within ourselves.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that withholding generosity is an act of oppression against the very essence of generosity itself. It urges us to embrace the virtue of giving and to emulate the divine attribute of generosity. By doing so, we not only contribute to the betterment of society but also nurture our own souls and draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to be generous and selfless individuals.