Hadith #3407

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,

One who does not know the benefit of a good action will not be capable of performing it.

This enlightening saying highlights the importance of understanding the benefits and rewards of performing righteous deeds in order to motivate ourselves to act upon them.

Let us analyze the key words in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (manfi'ah) "مَنْفِعَةَ" refers to the benefit, advantage, or profit that can be derived from a good action. It implies that every good deed has inherent benefits, both in this world and in the Hereafter. The word (al-khayr) "الخَيْرِ" means goodness or righteousness, encompassing all acts of virtue and obedience to Allah.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of understanding the true benefit of righteousness, which is the provision of piety. It is through piety that we attain closeness to Allah and safeguard ourselves from evil.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 21, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Race toward forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden whose width is like the width of the heavens and earth, prepared for those who believed in Allah and His messengers. That is the bounty of Allah which He gives to whom He wills, and Allah is the possessor of great bounty.

This verse highlights the immense benefits and rewards awaiting those who strive in performing good deeds and seeking forgiveness from Allah.

Now, let us delve into the significance of Imam Ali's statement. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his vast knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that without recognizing the benefits of a good action, we may lack the motivation and understanding required to perform it. When we understand the rewards and blessings that await us, we become more inclined to engage in acts of righteousness.

For example, when we comprehend the immense reward promised for acts of charity, we are more likely to give generously to those in need. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 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 illustrates the exponential reward that Allah bestows upon those who spend in His cause.

Furthermore, understanding the benefits of acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage, can inspire us to perform them with sincerity and devotion. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 45:

And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah].

This verse highlights the spiritual and emotional benefits of prayer, which provide solace and strength during challenging times.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of recognizing the benefits and rewards of good actions. By understanding the blessings that await us, we are motivated to engage in acts of righteousness and strive for a closer relationship with Allah. Let us reflect upon the profound wisdom of this Hadith and seek to increase our knowledge of the benefits of good deeds, so that we may be capable of performing them with sincerity and devotion. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the understanding to recognize the true benefits of our actions.