Hadith #4650

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) emphasizes the importance of giving and the reward that comes with it. The key words in this Hadith are (ijra') "إجْراءِ" which means "reward" or "compensation," and (hajah) "حاجَةً" which means "need" or "necessity."

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of giving and the rewards that await those who give sincerely and generously. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:245)

Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over? And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance, and to Him you will be returned

This verse highlights the concept of giving as a loan to Allah, and the promise of multiplied rewards in return.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah states, (Quran 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

This verse beautifully illustrates the abundance and multiplication of rewards for those who give in the way of Allah.

Now, let us delve into the exegesis of the Hadith itself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that when we give, we are actually in greater need of the reward than the person who is asking for our help. This beautiful Hadith highlights the selflessness and sincerity that should accompany our acts of charity. It reminds us that the true reward lies not in the material possessions we give, but in the spiritual growth and closeness to Allah that we attain through our generosity.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging us to reflect upon our intentions and motivations when we give. Are we giving solely to fulfill the needs of others, or are we also seeking the reward and blessings that come with it? The Hadith serves as a reminder that our own spiritual growth and well-being are intimately connected to our acts of charity. By recognizing our own need for the rewards of giving, we are encouraged to give with sincerity, humility, and gratitude.

The consequences of embodying the teachings of this Hadith are profound. When we give selflessly and with the intention of seeking the pleasure of Allah, our hearts are purified, and our connection with Him is strengthened. We become more compassionate, empathetic, and aware of the needs of others. Our generosity becomes a means of spreading goodness and uplifting society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of giving and the rewards that come with it. It calls upon us to reflect upon our intentions and motivations when we give, and to recognize our own need for the rewards of our charitable acts. By embodying the teachings of this Hadith, we can cultivate a spirit of selflessness, compassion, and gratitude, and ultimately draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May we all strive to be generous and sincere in our acts of charity, and may Allah bless us abundantly for our efforts.