Hadith #6615

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between justice and generosity. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to

Take with justice but give with munificence; you will possess two virtues.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance in light of the Quran.

The word (justice) "عَدْلِ" refers to fairness, equity, and upholding what is right. It entails treating others with equality, ensuring that everyone's rights are respected, and making decisions based on objective criteria. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of justice in numerous verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Nisa, verse 135, Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.

This verse highlights the obligation of Muslims to uphold justice, even if it means going against their own interests or the interests of their loved ones.

On the other hand, the word (munificence) "فَضْلِ" refers to generosity, benevolence, and going above and beyond what is expected. It involves giving freely and abundantly, without expecting anything in return. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to be generous in the Quran. 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 blessings and rewards that come with acts of generosity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to

Take with justice but give with munificence; you will possess two virtues.

This statement emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between justice and generosity in our interactions with others. It reminds us that justice should be the foundation of our actions, ensuring that we treat others fairly and uphold their rights. However, it also encourages us to go beyond justice and be generous in our dealings, giving freely and abundantly to those in need.

By practicing justice, we create a society that is fair and equitable, where everyone's rights are respected. This fosters harmony and unity among people. However, justice alone may not be enough to create a compassionate and caring society. This is where munificence comes into play. When we give with munificence, we extend a helping hand to those in need, showing compassion and empathy. This act of generosity not only benefits the recipients but also brings about a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction within ourselves.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that by combining justice and munificence, we possess two virtues. These virtues are interconnected and reinforce one another. When we practice justice and give with munificence, we not only fulfill our obligations towards others but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Our actions become a means of seeking the pleasure of Allah and attaining His blessings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of maintaining a balance between justice and generosity. It urges us to uphold justice in our dealings with others while also being generous and benevolent. By combining these two virtues, we not only create a just and compassionate society but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah. May Allah guide us to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and enable us to embody the values of justice and munificence in our lives.