Hadith #9367

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) highlights the characteristics of a vile person. The Arabic word (al-la'eem) "اللَّئِيمُ" refers to someone who is vile, wicked, or of low character. The word (idha) "إذا" means "when," indicating that this description applies to specific situations.

The first part of the Hadith states, (idha a'ta haqada) "إذا أعْطى حَقَدَ", which translates to

when he gives, he does begrudgingly.

Here, the word (a'ta) "أعْطى" means "to give," and (haqada) "حَقَدَ" means

to give with resentment or ill-will.

This implies that the vile person may give something, but their intention and attitude behind the act of giving are negative. They may feel resentful or begrudging towards the recipient, lacking sincerity and generosity.

The second part of the Hadith states, (wa idha u'tiya jahada) "وإذا أُعْطِيَ جَحَدَ", which translates to

and when he is given something, he is ungrateful.

Here, the word (u'tiya) "أُعْطِيَ" means "to be given," and (jahada) "جَحَدَ" means

to deny or reject.

This indicates that when the vile person receives something, they fail to acknowledge or appreciate the favor. They may deny the kindness shown to them or show ingratitude.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of sincere giving and gratitude in several verses.

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), 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 concept of giving generously and selflessly. The vile person, however, does not embody this spirit of giving, as they give begrudgingly, lacking the sincerity and selflessness that Allah desires from His servants.

Furthermore, in Surah Ibrahim (14:7), Allah says,

And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'

This verse emphasizes the importance of gratitude. The vile person, as described in the Hadith, fails to express gratitude when they are given something. They deny or reject the favor, disregarding the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah.

The consequences of such vile behavior are grave. The vile person's ill-will and lack of gratitude tarnish their own character and relationships. Their actions create a negative atmosphere of resentment and ingratitude, leading to strained relationships and a lack of blessings in their lives. Moreover, their behavior goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the virtues of generosity, sincerity, and gratitude.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of embodying noble qualities in our actions. As Muslims, we should strive to give sincerely and generously, without any resentment or ill-will. We should also cultivate a spirit of gratitude, acknowledging and appreciating the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. By doing so, we not only improve our own character but also foster positive relationships and invite the mercy and blessings of Allah into our lives.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to emulate the noble qualities exemplified by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the ability to give sincerely and express gratitude in all aspects of our lives.