Hadith #10122

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

It is from nobility for a man to spend his wealth and safeguard his dignity.

This Hadith emphasizes two important aspects of a person's character: generosity and self-respect.

The word "noblility" in the Hadith is translated from the Arabic term (النُّبْلِ) "nubl". This term refers to a high moral character, honor, and excellence. It signifies the qualities that elevate a person's status in the eyes of others and in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith mentions two specific actions that contribute to this nobility. The first action is spending one's wealth (مالَهُ) for the sake of Allah and for the betterment of others. This includes acts of charity, helping those in need, and supporting worthy causes. By willingly parting with his wealth, a person demonstrates generosity, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards the less fortunate.

The second action mentioned in the Hadith is safeguarding one's dignity (عِرْضَهُ). This refers to preserving one's honor, integrity, and self-respect. It involves avoiding actions that may bring shame or disgrace upon oneself or others. It also includes protecting one's reputation, maintaining modesty, and upholding ethical values in all aspects of life.

To understand the significance of these actions, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of generosity and spending in His book. 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 spending in the cause of Allah. It illustrates the concept of "sadaqah," which encompasses all acts of charity and benevolence. By giving from our wealth, we not only benefit others but also purify our own souls and increase our closeness to Allah.

In terms of safeguarding one's dignity, the Quran provides numerous examples and teachings. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands believers to lower their gaze, guard their private parts, and dress modestly. In Surah Al-A'raf, verse 26, Allah says,

O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining modesty and protecting one's chastity. It encourages Muslims to dress in a manner that reflects their piety and righteousness. By doing so, they not only preserve their own dignity but also contribute to a society that values moral values and upholds the teachings of Islam.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody these noble qualities in their daily lives. By being generous with our wealth and resources, we can alleviate the suffering of others and fulfill our duty towards the less fortunate. At the same time, by safeguarding our dignity, we uphold the principles of Islam and set an example for others to follow.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true nobility lies in the combination of generosity and self-respect. By spending our wealth for the sake of Allah and safeguarding our dignity, we can attain a higher moral character and earn the pleasure of Allah. May Allah guide us all to embody these qualities and grant us the ability to follow the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).