Hadith #2448

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ أكْمَلَ الإفْضالَ بَذَلَ النَّوالَ قَبْلَ السُّؤالِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who perfects his kindness gives generously before he is asked.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (akmala) "أكْمَلَ" means to perfect or complete something. In this context, it refers to the act of perfecting kindness. The word (al-ifdala) "الإفْضالَ" refers to acts of kindness, generosity, or favor. It encompasses going above and beyond what is expected or required. The word (badhala) "بَذَلَ" means to give or bestow. And finally, the word (an-nawala) "النَّوالَ" refers to giving before being asked.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 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 emphasizes the concept of giving generously without being asked, just as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentioned in the Hadith. When we give before we are asked, we demonstrate a selfless and sincere act of kindness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to multiply the reward for those who spend in His cause. Just as a seed multiplies and produces abundant crops, our acts of generosity will bear fruit in this life and the Hereafter.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra, verse 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 Allah's help and sustenance. When we give generously before being asked, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's provision and His ability to sustain us. By relying on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seeking His assistance, we strengthen our faith and deepen our connection with Him.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to be proactive in our acts of kindness and generosity. It teaches us to anticipate the needs of others and fulfill them before they even ask. This approach not only brings immediate relief and happiness to those in need, but it also fosters a sense of unity and compassion within the Muslim community.

When we give generously without being asked, we inspire others to do the same. Our actions become a source of motivation and encouragement for others to follow suit. This ripple effect of kindness can have far-reaching consequences, creating a society that is characterized by empathy, support, and love for one another.

Moreover, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasis on giving before being asked reflects his profound knowledge and understanding of human nature. He recognized that people often hesitate to ask for help due to pride, fear of rejection, or a sense of burdening others. By offering our assistance proactively, we alleviate these concerns and create an environment where individuals feel comfortable and supported.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of perfecting our kindness by giving generously before we are asked. This act of selflessness aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the rewards and blessings that come from spending in the way of Allah. By embodying this principle, we not only benefit those in need but also strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and foster a culture of compassion and generosity within the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice this Hadith in our daily lives and be a source of goodness for others.