Hadith #1468

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative trait of stinginess and miserliness in relation to wealth. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (bukhl) "بُخْلُ" in Arabic refers to stinginess or miserliness, which is the act of withholding or hoarding wealth and being reluctant to spend it in the way of Allah or for the benefit of others. This trait is condemned in Islam as it goes against the principles of generosity, compassion, and social responsibility that the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasize.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the love of wealth and its negative consequences in several verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 8:28)

And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that wealth and possessions are merely a test from Allah, and we will be held accountable for how we utilize them.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:29)

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse warns against both extremes when it comes to wealth. On one hand, being excessively miserly and unwilling to spend for the sake of Allah and the betterment of society is condemned. On the other hand, being extravagant and wasteful is also discouraged.

The consequences of stinginess and miserliness are not limited to this world alone. In Surah Al-Tawbah, Allah describes the punishment awaiting those who hoard their wealth and do not spend it in the way of Allah: (Quran 2:159)

Indeed, those who conceal what We sent down of clear proofs and guidance after We made it clear for the people in the Scripture - those are cursed by Allah and cursed by those who curse.

This verse serves as a reminder that withholding wealth and failing to fulfill our obligations of charity and generosity can lead to spiritual deprivation and divine punishment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith highlights the moral and ethical implications of stinginess. A miser is not only blameworthy in the eyes of society but is also liable for punishment from Allah. This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their relationship with wealth and to strive for a balanced approach.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and understanding of Islam. His words carry great weight and wisdom. By emphasizing the negative consequences of stinginess and miserliness, he encourages Muslims to adopt a generous and charitable mindset, reflecting the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of avoiding stinginess and miserliness in our lives. It serves as a call to action for Muslims to be generous, compassionate, and socially responsible with their wealth. May Allah guide us to be among those who spend in His cause and benefit others, and protect us from the blameworthy trait of stinginess.