Hadith #4752

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,

على قَدْرِ المُرُوءَةِ تَكُونُ السَّخاوَةُ۔

This can be translated as,

One’s generosity is proportionate to one’s magnanimity.

Let us delve into the meaning of the important words in this Hadith. (muruwwah) "مُرُوءَة" refers to nobility, magnanimity, and honorable character. It encompasses qualities such as courage, generosity, and righteousness. (sakhawah) "سَّخاوَة" means generosity, liberality, and the act of giving freely without expecting anything in return.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261),

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 concept of generosity and its rewards. Just as a single seed can yield a bountiful harvest, the act of giving generously can result in multiplied blessings from Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: 'My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of noble character and integrity. When we possess magnanimity and honorable traits, we are granted the support and assistance of Allah in our endeavors.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us that our level of generosity is directly linked to our level of magnanimity. When we possess noble character and strive to embody the qualities of courage, righteousness, and generosity, we naturally become more inclined to give freely and generously. Our acts of charity and kindness become a reflection of our inner virtues.

For example, a person with magnanimity will not hesitate to help those in need, regardless of their social status or background. They will give without expecting anything in return, seeking only the pleasure of Allah. Their generosity will extend beyond material possessions to include acts of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.

Conversely, a person lacking in magnanimity may be hesitant to give or may only give with the expectation of receiving something in return. Their generosity may be limited and conditional, lacking the selflessness and sincerity that comes with true magnanimity.

The consequences of embodying this Hadith are far-reaching. When we cultivate magnanimity within ourselves, we not only benefit those around us but also elevate our own spiritual state. Our acts of generosity become a means of purifying our souls, increasing our proximity to Allah, and attaining His pleasure.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali possessed a deep understanding of the teachings of Islam. His knowledge and insight allowed him to articulate profound truths, such as the relationship between magnanimity and generosity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that our generosity is a reflection of our magnanimity. When we cultivate noble character and strive to embody the qualities of courage, righteousness, and generosity, we naturally become more inclined to give freely and generously. Our acts of charity and kindness become a means of purifying our souls, attaining the pleasure of Allah, and elevating our spiritual state. May Allah grant us the ability to embody the qualities of magnanimity and generosity in our lives.