Hadith #2305

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The best grant is that which is given before it is sought.

This beautiful Hadith highlights the virtue and excellence of giving without being asked. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "nawal" in the Hadith refers to a grant or a gift. It signifies an act of giving or bestowing something upon someone. The word "wassala" means to reach or arrive at something. In this context, it refers to the act of giving before it is requested or sought after.

This Hadith emphasizes the superiority and nobility of giving without waiting for someone to ask for assistance. It encourages Muslims to be proactive in their generosity and kindness towards others. It teaches us that the true essence of charity lies in anticipating the needs of others and fulfilling them without any expectation of gratitude or recognition.

The Quran beautifully supports this concept of giving before being asked in several verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 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 await those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah. It demonstrates the concept of giving generously and abundantly, even before being asked, and how Allah multiplies the rewards for such acts of charity. It encourages Muslims to be proactive in their giving, knowing that Allah is aware of their intentions and will reward them accordingly.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

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 highlights the supplication of Prophet Ibrahim (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) to Allah, where he seeks strength and sustenance from Him. It exemplifies the concept of seeking provisions from Allah before they are even needed. Just as Prophet Ibrahim (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) asks for sustenance in advance, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to give in advance, anticipating the needs of others.

This Hadith teaches us the importance of being proactive in our acts of kindness and charity. It reminds us that true generosity lies in giving without being prompted or asked. By doing so, we not only fulfill the needs of others but also attain a higher level of spiritual elevation and closeness to Allah.

When we give before being asked, we display a deep sense of empathy and compassion. We become aware of the struggles and challenges faced by others and take it upon ourselves to alleviate their burdens. This selfless act of giving not only benefits the recipient but also brings immense satisfaction and contentment to the giver.

Moreover, giving before being asked fosters a sense of community and unity among Muslims. It strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, as it demonstrates our willingness to support and uplift one another without hesitation. It creates an environment of trust and love, where individuals feel valued and cared for.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the virtue of giving before being asked. It encourages Muslims to be proactive in their acts of charity and kindness, anticipating the needs of others and fulfilling them without any expectation of reward or recognition. This concept is beautifully supported by the Quranic verses that highlight the immense rewards and blessings that await those who give generously and abundantly. May we all strive to embody the teachings of this Hadith and become a source of goodness and compassion for others.