Hadith #9897

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Through obligation the favor is spoilt.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative consequences of obligating someone to do a favor. To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words and their implications.

The word (bil-manni) "بِالمَنِّ" in Arabic refers to an act of kindness, favor, or benevolence. It encompasses any act done voluntarily and out of goodwill towards others. This can include acts of charity, assistance, or any form of help that one extends to another person without any compulsion.

The word (yukaddaru) "يُكَدَّرُ" means to spoil, ruin, or diminish the value of something. It implies that when a favor is imposed or obligated upon someone, it loses its essence and becomes tainted. The act of obligating someone to do a favor takes away the sincerity and willingness that should accompany such acts of kindness.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:256),

There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion.

This verse emphasizes the importance of voluntary actions and highlights that true faith cannot be forced upon anyone. Similarly, when it comes to acts of kindness, they should also be done willingly and without any coercion.

In Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse teaches us to seek Allah's guidance and strength in all our actions, including acts of kindness. When we perform acts of kindness voluntarily, seeking Allah's pleasure, our actions become more meaningful and beneficial.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, understood the importance of sincerity and voluntary acts of kindness. He recognized that when a favor is imposed or obligated, it loses its true value and essence. By obligating someone to do a favor, we not only diminish the sincerity of the act but also potentially harm the relationship between the giver and the receiver.

For example, if someone is forced to give charity or help others against their will, they may do so begrudgingly or without genuine compassion. This not only affects the quality of the act but also damages the relationship between the giver and the receiver. The receiver may feel indebted or obligated, and the giver may feel resentful or unappreciated. Thus, the favor is spoiled, and the intended positive impact is lost.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Through obligation the favor is spoilt,

serves as a reminder for Muslims to perform acts of kindness voluntarily and sincerely. By doing so, we ensure that our actions are pure, meaningful, and beneficial. Let us strive to follow the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in all aspects of our lives, including our interactions with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be sincere and selfless in our acts of kindness and grant us His blessings and mercy.