Hadith #9703

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he mentions three qualities that are the essence of magnanimity or generosity. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and then explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first quality mentioned is (giving) "عَطَاءٌ" which refers to the act of giving or bestowing something upon someone. It is an act of generosity and kindness that is done willingly and without any expectation of reciprocation. The word (without being asked) "مِنْ غَيْرِ مَسْئَلَة" emphasizes the selflessness of the act, as it is done without any prompting or request from the recipient.

The second quality mentioned is (being faithful) "وَفَاءٌ" which signifies loyalty, trustworthiness, and fulfilling one's commitments. It is the act of keeping one's word and being true to the promises made, even in the absence of a formal agreement or contract. The phrase (without having made a promise) "مِنْ غَيْرِ عَهْد" highlights the sincerity and integrity of the person, as they remain faithful without any prior obligation or agreement.

The third quality mentioned is (being generous) "جُودٌ" which refers to the act of giving generously and abundantly, despite having limited resources or means. It is the act of sharing and providing for others, even when one's own provisions may be scarce. The phrase (despite having less) "مَعَ إقْلال" emphasizes the contrast between the limited resources and the abundant generosity displayed by the person.

Now, let us explore the significance of these qualities in light of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving and being charitable in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 63:10)

And spend of what We have provided for you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.'

This verse highlights the importance of giving without being asked, as it encourages Muslims to be proactive in their acts of charity and not wait for someone to request assistance. It also emphasizes the urgency of giving, as death can come suddenly and prevent one from fulfilling their charitable intentions.

The concept of being faithful without having made a promise is beautifully exemplified in the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) in the Quran. When Yusuf was imprisoned, he interpreted the dreams of two fellow prisoners and asked one of them, upon his release, to mention him to the king. However, the prisoner forgot to fulfill his promise. Years later, when the prisoner remembered Yusuf, he said, (Quran 12:41)

Indeed, I will inform the king of your interpretation, so send me forth.

This incident highlights the importance of fulfilling one's commitments and remaining faithful, even when there is no formal agreement. It teaches us the value of integrity and trustworthiness, as these qualities are essential in maintaining strong relationships and upholding the principles of magnanimity.

The concept of being generous despite having less is beautifully illustrated in the story of the widow who gave her two small coins in charity, as mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah. Allah says, (Quran 47:2)

But those who believe and do righteous deeds and believe in what has been sent down to Muhammad - and it is the truth from their Lord - He will remove from them their misdeeds and amend their condition.

This verse highlights the immense reward and blessings that come with acts of generosity, regardless of the quantity or value of what is given. It teaches us that true magnanimity lies not in the abundance of wealth, but in the willingness to share and give, even when one's own provisions may be limited.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully encapsulates the essence of magnanimity and generosity. It emphasizes the importance of giving without being asked, being faithful without having made a promise, and being generous despite having less. These qualities are not only praised by Imam Ali, but also find resonance in the teachings of the Quran. As Muslims, we should strive to embody these qualities in our lives, as they are the true markers of magnanimity and reflect the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the teachings of Islam.