Hadith #5700

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the virtue and excellence of giving charity in secret. The word (sadaqah) "صَدَقَةُ" refers to any act of charity or giving, whether it is in the form of money, goods, or even a kind word. The word (sirr) "سِرِّ" means secret or hidden. The phrase (min afḍal al-birr) "مِنْ أفْضَلِ البِرِّ" means

from the best righteous actions.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of giving charity in secret, as it is considered one of the most virtuous acts of righteousness. It encourages Muslims to perform acts of charity without seeking recognition or praise from others. By giving in secret, one's intention becomes purely for the sake of pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seeking His reward.

The concept of giving charity in secret is not only emphasized in this Hadith but is also supported by various verses of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:271):

If you disclose your charitable expenditures, they are good; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, it is better for you. And Allah is fully aware of what you do.

This verse highlights the superiority of giving charity secretly, as it is a means of purifying one's intentions and ensuring that the act is solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also emphasizes the importance of sincerity in acts of charity, as it is not meant to be a display of wealth or status.

Another verse that supports the concept of giving charity in secret is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:55):

Your ally is none but Allah and [therefore] His Messenger and those who have believed - those who establish prayer and give zakah, and they bow [in worship].

This verse highlights the importance of giving zakah, which is a form of obligatory charity, in a manner that is sincere and hidden from the eyes of others. It emphasizes the need to establish a close connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through acts of worship, including giving charity.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their intentions when giving charity. It encourages them to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone and to avoid seeking praise or recognition from others. By giving in secret, one safeguards their sincerity and ensures that their act of charity is solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, giving charity in secret has various motivations and consequences. Firstly, it helps to protect the dignity and privacy of the recipient. By giving in secret, the person in need is spared from any potential embarrassment or humiliation that may arise from receiving charity publicly. This preserves their self-respect and allows them to maintain their dignity.

Secondly, giving charity in secret helps to purify the intentions of the giver. When one gives without seeking recognition or praise, they are able to detach themselves from worldly desires and focus solely on pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This act of selflessness and humility strengthens their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and increases their reward in the Hereafter.

Lastly, giving charity in secret has a positive impact on society as a whole. It encourages a culture of generosity and compassion, where individuals are motivated to help others without any expectation of reward or recognition. This fosters a sense of unity and solidarity among Muslims, as they strive to support one another in times of need.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the virtue and excellence of giving charity in secret. It encourages Muslims to perform acts of charity with sincerity and without seeking recognition or praise from others. This concept is supported by various verses of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of sincerity and the purification of intentions in acts of charity. By giving in secret, Muslims can protect the dignity of the recipient, purify their intentions, and contribute to a more compassionate and generous society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all to perform acts of charity with sincerity and humility.