Hadith #1803

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

مَنْ لَمْ يَسْمَحْ وهُوَ مَحْمُودٌ سَمَحَ وهُوَ مَلُومٌ۔

This can be translated as,

One who does not give generously while he is praised has to give away while he is dispraised.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its implications in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (samaha) "سَمَحَ" in this Hadith means to give generously or to be generous. It implies the act of bestowing favors, kindness, and benevolence upon others. On the other hand, the word (maloom) "مَلُومٌ" means to be dispraised or criticized. It signifies being blamed, condemned, or held accountable for one's actions.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can refer to the Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of generosity and the consequences of withholding it. 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 with giving generously in the way of Allah. Just as a seed multiplies and yields abundant crops, the act of spending in the cause of Allah leads to manifold increase in blessings and provisions. It is a means of attaining spiritual growth and prosperity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:274), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Those who spend their wealth [in Allah's cause] 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 generously without seeking recognition or praise. Those who spend their wealth sincerely for the sake of Allah, whether in public or in private, will be rewarded abundantly by their Lord. Their actions are driven by a genuine desire to please Allah and help others, rather than seeking worldly acclaim.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the importance of maintaining our generosity even when we are praised. It is easy to become complacent or self-centered when we receive accolades for our good deeds. However, true generosity is not contingent upon external validation or praise. It is a quality that stems from a sincere and selfless desire to benefit others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that our generosity should not waver based on the opinions or judgments of others. Even if we are criticized or dispraised, we should continue to give generously and fulfill our obligations towards those in need. This requires steadfastness, resilience, and a deep understanding of the value of our actions in the sight of Allah.

By giving generously while being dispraised, we demonstrate our commitment to the principles of justice, compassion, and selflessness. We rise above the opinions and judgments of others, seeking the pleasure of Allah alone. Our actions become a reflection of our faith and a means of purifying our souls.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of maintaining our generosity even in the face of praise or criticism. It urges us to give generously without seeking validation or recognition from others. By doing so, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the rewards and blessings that come with selfless acts of charity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the spirit of generosity and to give generously for His sake, regardless of the opinions of others.