Hadith #2530

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,

أقْبَحُ أفعالِ الكَرِيمِ مَنْعُ عَطائِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

The ugliest deed of an honourable person is withholding his contribution.

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

The word (aqbah) "أقْبَحُ" refers to something that is extremely ugly or repugnant. It signifies an action that is morally reprehensible and goes against the noble character of a person. The word (afaal) "أفعالِ" means deeds or actions, and (alkareem) "الكَرِيمِ" refers to someone who is honorable, generous, and noble. Finally, (mana'u ata'ihi) "مَنْعُ عَطائِهِ" means withholding or preventing one's contribution or giving.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261, Allah says,

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 with giving in the cause of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 274, Allah states,

Those who spend their wealth [in Allah's way] by night and by day, secretly and publicly - they will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving both publicly and privately, highlighting that true generosity is not driven by seeking recognition or praise from others.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The Imam reminds us that withholding our contributions, whether it be financial, knowledge, or any form of support, is a despicable act that goes against the noble character of a person. It is a betrayal of the inherent generosity and kindness that Allah has bestowed upon us.

By withholding our contributions, we not only deprive others of much-needed assistance but also hinder our own spiritual growth. Giving and sharing are not only acts of kindness but also acts of worship that bring us closer to Allah. When we contribute to the well-being of others, we emulate the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who were known for their selflessness and generosity.

Moreover, withholding our contributions can have far-reaching consequences. It can create a sense of division and inequality within society, leading to resentment and discord. Conversely, when we actively contribute and support others, we foster a sense of unity, compassion, and social cohesion.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to be generous, selfless, and compassionate in our actions. It encourages us to overcome our selfish tendencies and embrace the spirit of giving that is ingrained in our faith. Let us strive to be like the honorable ones who give without hesitation, knowing that Allah will multiply their rewards and bless them abundantly.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to embody the noble qualities of generosity and selflessness, and may we always be ready to contribute to the betterment of our communities and the world at large.