Hadith #2410

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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:

عَلَيْكُمْ بِصَنايِعِ المَعْرُوفِ فَإنَّها نِعْمَ الزَّادُ إلَى المَعادِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

Perform benevolent works, for they are the best provisions for the Hereafter.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith in light of the Quran. The key words in this Hadith are (sanāyiʿi al-maʿrūf) "صَنايِعِ المَعْرُوفِ", which can be translated as "benevolent works" or "good deeds." The word (sanāyiʿi) "صَنايِعِ" is the plural form of (saniʿah) "صَنِعَة", which refers to any action or work. The word (al-maʿrūf) "المَعْرُوفِ" means "good" or "recognized as good" and is derived from the root word (ʿarafa) "عَرَفَ", meaning to know or recognize.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:177)

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves

This verse highlights the significance of performing acts of kindness and charity towards others. It emphasizes that true righteousness is not merely limited to outward rituals or appearances, but it encompasses a sincere belief in Allah and a commitment to helping those in need. These acts of benevolence are recognized as good by Allah and are a means of attaining His pleasure and reward in the Hereafter.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hajj, where Allah says, (Quran 22:30)

That [has been commanded], and whoever honors the sacred ordinances of Allah - it is best for him in the sight of his Lord

This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring the commands and ordinances of Allah, which includes performing good deeds and acts of kindness. Such actions are considered the best in the sight of Allah, as they reflect a sincere devotion to His guidance and a desire to please Him.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that performing benevolent works is not only a means of helping others and making a positive impact on society, but it is also a means of preparing for the Hereafter. Our good deeds serve as provisions for the journey of the Hereafter, just as provisions are essential for a physical journey. They are the means by which we attain closeness to Allah and secure our place in Paradise.

When we engage in acts of kindness, we not only benefit others but also purify our own souls and increase our faith. These acts of goodness have a transformative effect on our character and strengthen our relationship with Allah. They motivate us to strive for excellence in all aspects of our lives and inspire others to follow the path of righteousness.

Furthermore, the consequences of performing good deeds are far-reaching. They create a ripple effect, spreading positivity and compassion in society. When we engage in acts of charity, kindness, and justice, we contribute to the establishment of a just and harmonious society. Our actions inspire others to do good and create a virtuous cycle of benevolence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of performing benevolent works as the best provisions for the Hereafter. It urges us to recognize the value of good deeds and their impact on our spiritual growth and the betterment of society. Let us strive to embody the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt by actively engaging in acts of kindness, charity, and justice. May Allah accept our efforts and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.