Hadith #1828

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) states,

The alms-tax of high rank [and power] is benefitting others with it.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of using one's wealth and power to benefit others. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its essence in light of the Quran.

The word (zakat) "زَكوةُ" in this Hadith refers to the act of giving charity or alms. It is derived from the Arabic root (zaka) "زَكَا", which means to purify or cleanse. Zakat is not only a means of purifying one's wealth but also purifying one's soul. It is a fundamental pillar of Islam and a means of fulfilling our obligation towards those in need.

The word (al-jah) "الجاهِ" in this Hadith refers to high rank or power. It signifies a position of influence and authority. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that those who possess wealth and power have a greater responsibility to use it for the betterment of others. This Hadith serves as a reminder to the wealthy and powerful individuals in society to fulfill their duty towards the less fortunate.

The Hadith emphasizes that the true essence of zakat lies not merely in giving away a portion of one's wealth but in using that wealth to benefit others. It encourages individuals to go beyond the obligatory acts of charity and to actively seek out ways to improve the lives of those around them. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of helping the needy and practicing generosity.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 177:

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] 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; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse highlights the importance of giving wealth to those in need, which is an essential aspect of righteousness. It emphasizes that true righteousness lies in believing in Allah and fulfilling our duties towards others, including giving zakat to the less fortunate. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes this concept by stating that the alms-tax of high rank is benefitting others with it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Ayah 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 importance of seeking sustenance from Allah and using it in a righteous manner. It encourages us to use our wealth and power to benefit others and seek His blessings in doing so.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this teaching throughout his life. His knowledge and understanding of the Quran enabled him to embody the true essence of zakat. He used his wealth and power to alleviate the suffering of the poor and needy, establishing a just and compassionate society. His actions serve as a profound example for all Muslims, reminding us of our duty to use our resources for the betterment of humanity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of using wealth and power to benefit others. It reminds us that true zakat lies not only in giving away a portion of our wealth but in actively seeking ways to improve the lives of those around us. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the importance of helping the needy and practicing generosity. Let us strive to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and fulfill our duty towards those in need, purifying our wealth and souls in the process. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and enable us to benefit others with our wealth and power.