Hadith #5684

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,

إذا أَمْلَقْتُمْ فَتاجِرُوا اللّهَ بِالصَّدَقَةِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

When you become penniless then do business with Allah through charity.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (amlaqtum) "أَمْلَقْتُمْ" is derived from the root word (malaqa) "مَلَقَ", which means to become destitute or penniless. It refers to a state of extreme poverty where one has no means of sustenance or livelihood. The word (fatajiru) "فَتاجِرُوا" is derived from the root word (tijarah) "تَجَارَة", which means trade or business. It implies engaging in a transaction or exchange of goods or services for profit. Lastly, the word (as-sadaqah) "الصَّدَقَةِ" refers to charity or acts of giving, particularly in the form of monetary assistance to those in need.

To understand the beautiful message of 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 immense reward and blessings that come from giving in the way of Allah. Just as a single seed yields a bountiful harvest, our acts of charity can bring forth abundant blessings and prosperity in our lives.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Tawbah (9:60), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) mentions the various categories of people who are eligible to receive charity, stating,

Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect [zakah] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler - an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise.

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving charity to those in need, as it is a means of fulfilling our obligations towards Allah and promoting social justice.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. When we find ourselves in a state of extreme poverty or financial hardship, instead of despairing or seeking worldly means for sustenance, we are encouraged to turn to Allah and engage in the trade of charity. Just as a successful business venture yields profits and benefits, investing in acts of charity brings forth spiritual and material rewards from Allah.

By giving in the way of Allah, we not only alleviate the suffering of those in need but also purify our souls, strengthen our faith, and seek closeness to our Creator. Moreover, when we engage in the trade of charity, we are reminded of the transient nature of worldly wealth and the importance of prioritizing our eternal rewards. This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to never lose hope in times of hardship and to always turn to Allah for sustenance and guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the profound lesson of doing business with Allah through acts of charity when we find ourselves in a state of extreme poverty. It reminds us of the immense rewards and blessings that come from giving in the way of Allah, as highlighted in the Quranic verses. By engaging in the trade of charity, we not only alleviate the suffering of others but also strengthen our faith, purify our souls, and seek closeness to Allah. May we always remember this valuable lesson and strive to be generous and compassionate in our dealings with others.