Hadith #6167

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "زَكاةُ الظَّفَرِ الإحْسانُ۔" This can be translated into English as:

The alms-tax of victory is benevolence.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (zakat) "زَكَاةُ" refers to the obligatory charity that Muslims are required to give as a means of purifying their wealth and helping those in need. The term (dhafar) "ظَفَرِ" can be understood as "victory" or "achievement." And finally, (ihsan) "إِحْسَانُ" can be translated as "benevolence" or "excellence in action."

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 towards the East or the West, but righteousness is the 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.

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving charity to those in need, regardless of their background or circumstances. It highlights that true righteousness lies in believing in Allah and His messengers, and in using one's wealth to benefit others. This aligns with the concept of "زَكَاةُ الظَّفَرِ الإحْسانُ" mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

Furthermore, the Quran also encourages Muslims to be generous and kind-hearted. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 illustrates the immense rewards that await those who give in the way of Allah. Just as a single seed can yield a bountiful harvest, a small act of charity can have far-reaching effects and bring blessings to the giver. This serves as a motivation for Muslims to practice "زَكَاةُ الظَّفَرِ الإحْسانُ" and engage in acts of benevolence.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that victory is not solely measured by material conquest or personal achievements. True victory lies in the act of giving and showing kindness to others. By practicing "زَكَاةُ الظَّفَرِ الإحْسانُ," Muslims can attain spiritual triumph and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. His actions and teachings exemplified the concept of "زَكَاةُ الظَّفَرِ الإحْسانُ." He would generously give to the poor and needy, even to the extent of giving away his own food and clothing. His benevolence and selflessness serve as an inspiration for Muslims to follow in his footsteps and strive for excellence in their actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true victory lies in acts of benevolence and kindness towards others. By practicing "زَكَاةُ الظَّفَرِ الإحْسانُ," Muslims can purify their wealth, help those in need, and attain spiritual triumph. Let us strive to emulate the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through acts of charity and goodness. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness.