Hadith #9142

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الكرم فضلٌ، الوفاء نُبلٌ۔

This can be translated as,

Munificence is excellence and loyalty is nobility.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (al-karam) "الكرم" refers to munificence or generosity. It encompasses the act of giving and bestowing favors upon others without expecting anything in return. It is an attribute that reflects the essence of goodness and benevolence. The word (fadl) "فضل" means excellence or virtue. It denotes the quality of surpassing others in goodness and righteousness.

The second part of the Hadith states, (al-wafa' nubl) "الوفاء نُبلٌ". Here, (al-wafa') "الوفاء" signifies loyalty, faithfulness, and fulfilling one's commitments. It is the act of standing by someone's side, even in the face of challenges and difficulties. (nubl) "نُبلٌ" refers to nobility, honor, and dignity. It represents the elevated status that one attains through their loyalty and steadfastness.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177:

It is not righteousness that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse emphasizes the importance of munificence and loyalty in the path of righteousness. It teaches us that true righteousness lies not in mere rituals or outward displays, but in the sincerity of our belief and the actions that reflect it. Giving wealth to those in need, fulfilling promises, and remaining steadfast in times of hardship are all manifestations of munificence and loyalty.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, the believers are brothers, so make peace between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.

This verse highlights the importance of loyalty and unity among believers. It encourages us to maintain strong bonds of brotherhood and to resolve conflicts with kindness and compassion. Loyalty towards our fellow Muslims is a noble trait that fosters unity and strengthens the community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the virtues of munificence and loyalty. It teaches us that true excellence lies in selflessly giving and helping others, without expecting anything in return. It also emphasizes the importance of remaining loyal and steadfast in our commitments, whether they are personal, social, or religious.

By embodying these qualities, we not only elevate ourselves but also contribute to the betterment of society. Munificence and loyalty create a harmonious and compassionate environment, where individuals support and uplift one another. They foster a sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims, strengthening the bonds of faith and love.

Let us reflect upon the profound wisdom of this Hadith and strive to incorporate these virtues into our lives. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be generous and loyal, and may He bless us with the excellence and nobility that comes from practicing these virtues.