Hadith #2438

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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,

مَنْ لَمْ يُعْطَ قاعِداً مُنِعَ قائِماً۔

This can be translated as,

One who does not give while he is sitting [in ease] will be deprived when he is standing [in adversity].

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of generosity and giving in times of ease, as it directly impacts our ability to receive help and support when we are facing difficulties.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words and their implications. The word (yu'ta) "يُعْطَ" means "to give" or "to bestow." It signifies an act of generosity and selflessness. The word (qa'idan) "قاعِداً" refers to someone who is sitting or in a state of ease. This indicates that the act of giving should not be limited to times of hardship or need, but should also be practiced when one is in a comfortable position.

On the other hand, the word (munia) "مُنِعَ" means "to be deprived" or "to be prevented." It signifies the consequence of not giving in times of ease. The word (qa'iman) "قائِماً" refers to someone who is standing or facing adversity. This implies that if one fails to give in times of ease, they will be deprived of assistance and support when they are in need.

The Quranic teachings emphasize the importance of generosity and giving in numerous verses. 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 rewards and blessings that come from giving in the way of Allah, even if it may seem like a small act.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.

This verse emphasizes the connection between faith, belief in Allah and His Messenger, and the act of spending in the way of Allah. It highlights that giving is not only a means of helping others but also a means of strengthening our own faith and spirituality.

The exegesis of this Hadith by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us several important lessons. Firstly, it reminds us that generosity and giving should not be limited to times of need or hardship. It is easy to be charitable when we are facing difficulties ourselves, but true generosity lies in giving even when we are in a position of comfort. By doing so, we cultivate a habit of selflessness and compassion.

Secondly, this Hadith highlights the concept of reciprocity in the divine system. When we give in times of ease, we establish a connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His creation. This connection becomes a source of support and assistance for us when we face adversity. Just as Allah multiplies the rewards for those who spend in His way, He also provides for those who give selflessly to others.

Lastly, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of foresight and preparation. By giving in times of ease, we are preparing ourselves for the challenges that may lie ahead. We are building a reserve of goodwill and blessings that can sustain us during difficult times. It is a proactive approach to life, where we take responsibility for our own well-being and the well-being of others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the significance of giving in times of ease and the consequences of withholding generosity. It reminds us to be proactive in our acts of charity and to cultivate a mindset of selflessness and compassion. By doing so, we not only benefit others but also create a strong foundation of support and blessings for ourselves. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice generosity in all aspects of our lives.