Hadith #9704

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights three qualities that constitute magnanimity or nobility of character. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first quality mentioned is (jood) "جُودٌ", which can be translated as generosity or magnanimity. It refers to the act of giving and being generous, even in times of poverty or hardship. This emphasizes the importance of selflessness and the willingness to help others, regardless of one's own circumstances. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages generosity in the Quran, stating 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.

The second quality mentioned is (ihtimaal) "احْتِمَالٌ", which can be translated as tolerance or forbearance. It refers to the ability to endure and tolerate various situations without feeling humiliated. This quality highlights the importance of maintaining dignity and self-respect, even in the face of adversity. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hajj (22:60):

That [has been commanded], and whoever honors the sacred ordinances of Allah - it is best for him in the sight of his Lord. And permitted to you are the grazing livestock, except what is recited to you. So avoid the uncleanliness of idols and avoid false statement.

The third quality mentioned is (ta'affuf) "تَعَفُّفٌ", which can be translated as refraining or abstaining. It refers to the act of refraining from asking others for help or favors. This quality highlights the importance of self-reliance and independence, while also promoting humility and contentment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

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.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound statement serves as a guide for Muslims to cultivate these qualities in their lives. By practicing generosity, even in times of hardship, we emulate the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. By tolerating and enduring difficulties without feeling humiliated, we uphold our dignity and honor as Muslims. And by refraining from asking others for help, we develop self-reliance and humility.

The consequences of embodying these qualities are far-reaching. Generosity not only benefits those in need but also purifies our hearts and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community. Tolerance and forbearance enable us to navigate through life's challenges with grace and resilience, fostering a harmonious society. Refraining from asking others for help cultivates self-sufficiency and contentment, freeing us from the shackles of dependency.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of embodying these qualities in our daily lives. By practicing generosity, tolerance, and refraining from asking others for help, we can strive towards magnanimity and nobility of character. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these qualities and follow the example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the righteous ones.