Hadith #2473

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

مِنْ شَرَفِ الهِمَّةِ بَذْلُ الإحْسانِ۔

This can be translated as,

Doing good to others is part of an honourable purpose.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom contained within this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (himma) "هِمَّةِ" in this Hadith refers to one's aspiration, determination, and resolve. It encompasses the inner drive and motivation that propels a person towards achieving noble goals. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of this quality by emphasizing that part of a noble and elevated aspiration is the act of (bathlul ihsan) "بَذْلُ الإحْسانِ", which means "doing good" or "bestowing kindness."

This Hadith beautifully aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of performing acts of kindness and benevolence towards others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83),

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the obligation upon Muslims to do good to their parents, relatives, orphans, and the needy. It emphasizes the importance of speaking good words and performing acts of kindness towards others. By doing so, we fulfill our duty towards Allah and His creation, and we manifest the true essence of an honorable purpose.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in our interactions with others. It encourages Muslims to rise above personal biases and prejudices and treat everyone with equity and kindness. By doing so, we uphold the principles of justice and righteousness, which are integral to an honorable purpose.

The exegesis of this Hadith brings to light the profound wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By emphasizing the importance of doing good to others as part of an honorable purpose, he reminds us of the significance of selflessness and compassion in our lives. When we strive to benefit others and alleviate their suffering, we not only fulfill our duty towards Allah but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasis on the act of (doing good) "بَذْلُ الإحْسانِ" serves as a motivation for us to actively seek opportunities to help and support others. It encourages us to go beyond our own self-interests and extend a helping hand to those in need. By doing so, we cultivate a sense of empathy, kindness, and generosity within ourselves, which ultimately leads to personal growth and spiritual elevation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that part of an honorable purpose is the act of doing good to others. This aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of kindness, justice, and compassion. By embodying these qualities and striving to benefit others, we not only fulfill our duty towards Allah but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody this noble teaching in our lives and make us a source of goodness and mercy for all.