Hadith #3388

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Three things consolidate that which is good: bestowing favors, guarding [one’s] sureties and keeping ties with near relatives.

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of three actions that contribute to the consolidation of goodness in our lives.

Firstly, "bestowing favors" refers to the act of giving and being generous towards others. This includes sharing our wealth, knowledge, time, and resources with those in need. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to be generous and kind-hearted in the Quran, as He 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.

By bestowing favors upon others, we not only benefit them but also purify our own souls and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community.

Secondly, "guarding [one’s] sureties" refers to fulfilling our promises and commitments. This includes honoring our contracts, agreements, and obligations, whether they are formal or informal. Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our promises in Surah Al-Isra (17:34),

And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

By being trustworthy and reliable, we establish a sense of trust and stability in our relationships and society.

Lastly,

keeping ties with near relatives

emphasizes the significance of maintaining strong bonds with our family members. This includes our parents, siblings, children, and extended family. Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ) commands us to be kind and respectful towards our relatives in Surah An-Nisa (4:36),

Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the neighbor farther away, the companion at your side, the traveler, and those whom your right hands possess. Indeed, Allah does not like those who are self-deluding and boastful.

By nurturing these relationships, we strengthen the fabric of our society and create a support system that brings comfort and unity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights these three actions as means to consolidate goodness in our lives. By bestowing favors, we spread kindness and generosity, creating a positive impact on those around us. By guarding our sureties, we establish trust and reliability, fostering harmonious relationships. And by keeping ties with our near relatives, we strengthen the bonds of kinship and create a sense of belonging within our families and communities.

The motivation behind these actions lies in the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of selflessness, honesty, and maintaining strong family ties. Through these actions, we strive to emulate the qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family, who were known for their generosity, trustworthiness, and devotion to their relatives.

The consequences of practicing these actions are manifold. By bestowing favors, we not only bring joy and relief to those in need but also earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By guarding our sureties, we uphold the principles of justice and integrity, fostering a society built on trust and accountability. And by keeping ties with our near relatives, we preserve the unity and strength of our families, ensuring a support system that extends beyond blood relations.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of embodying these qualities in our daily lives. By practicing generosity, fulfilling our promises, and maintaining strong family ties, we contribute to the consolidation of goodness within ourselves and our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to implement these teachings and may He bless us with His mercy and guidance.