Hadith #2381

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "جَمالُ المَعْرُوفِ إتْمامُهُ۔" This can be translated as,

The beauty of a benevolent act is in completing it.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the teachings of the Quran.

The word (jamal) "جَمالُ" in this Hadith refers to beauty or excellence. It signifies the aesthetic appeal and attractiveness of an action. The word (al-ma'ruf) "المَعْرُوفِ" refers to acts of kindness, goodness, and righteousness. It encompasses all actions that are recognized as virtuous and beneficial in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Lastly, the word (itmaamuhu) "إتْمامُهُ" means completion or fulfillment. It emphasizes the importance of carrying out a benevolent act until its conclusion.

To understand the significance of completing a benevolent act, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 195,

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of spending in the way of Allah and performing acts of goodness. However, it also emphasizes the need for continuity and perseverance in these actions. Completing a benevolent act ensures that it reaches its intended purpose and brings about the desired positive impact.

Another Quranic verse that supports the concept of completing a benevolent act is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah, Ayah 2, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse encourages Muslims to collaborate and support one another in acts of righteousness and piety. However, true cooperation and collaboration require the commitment to see these acts through to their completion. By doing so, we not only fulfill our individual responsibilities but also contribute to the collective welfare of the Muslim community.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the true beauty of a benevolent act lies in its completion. It serves as a motivation for Muslims to not only initiate acts of kindness but to also persevere until the task is fully accomplished. This Hadith encourages us to reflect on our intentions and actions, ensuring that we do not leave any good deed unfinished.

By completing a benevolent act, we not only fulfill our obligations towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also experience the satisfaction of making a positive difference in the lives of others. It instills a sense of responsibility and dedication within us, fostering a culture of compassion and generosity. Moreover, completing a benevolent act sets an example for others, inspiring them to follow suit and engage in acts of goodness themselves.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the true beauty of a benevolent act lies in its completion. It reminds us of the importance of perseverance and dedication in performing acts of kindness and righteousness. By completing our good deeds, we not only fulfill our obligations towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) but also contribute to the betterment of our community and society as a whole. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to consistently complete our benevolent acts, and may He accept our efforts.