Hadith #4697

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two noble qualities: generosity and courage. These qualities are described as honorable instincts that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) places within those whom He loves and tests.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the important words mentioned in this Hadith. "Sakhā" refers to generosity, which encompasses the act of giving freely and abundantly, without expecting anything in return. "Shajā'ah" refers to courage, which is the ability to face challenges and difficulties with bravery and determination. These qualities are described as "gharā'iz sharīfah," meaning noble instincts or noble traits.

To understand the significance of these noble instincts, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:195)

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good

This verse emphasizes the importance of generosity and spending in the cause of Allah, as it is an act that Allah loves.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 47:7)

O you who have believed, if you support Allah, He will support you and plant firmly your feet

This verse highlights the significance of courage and steadfastness in the path of Allah. When we show courage in standing up for what is right and supporting the cause of Allah, He promises to support and strengthen us.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that these noble instincts of generosity and courage are not mere human attributes, but rather gifts from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Allah places these qualities within those whom He loves and has chosen for trials. This means that when Allah loves a person, He blesses them with the ability to be generous and courageous, and He tests them to strengthen these qualities.

For example, we can see the manifestation of these qualities in the life of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His generosity was unparalleled, as he would give away his wealth and possessions to those in need, without expecting anything in return. His courage was evident on the battlefield, where he fearlessly fought for the cause of Islam and defended the oppressed.

The motivation behind these noble instincts is rooted in the love and obedience of Allah. When a person loves Allah and seeks His pleasure, they naturally develop a sense of generosity and courage. They understand that everything they possess is a blessing from Allah, and they are willing to share it with others. They also recognize that standing up for justice and truth requires courage, as it may involve facing opposition and hardships.

The consequences of embodying these noble instincts are manifold. Generosity leads to blessings and abundance in this world and the Hereafter. Allah promises to multiply the rewards for those who give in His cause. Courage, on the other hand, leads to victory and success. When we stand up for what is right, Allah supports us and grants us strength.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating these noble instincts within ourselves. We should strive to be generous in our actions, whether it be through giving to the needy, supporting charitable causes, or simply being kind and helpful to others. We should also strive to be courageous in standing up for justice and truth, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the honorable instincts of generosity and courage, which are bestowed upon those whom Allah loves and tests. These qualities find their roots in the Quranic teachings, emphasizing the significance of generosity and courage in the sight of Allah. By embodying these noble instincts, we can strive to please Allah and attain success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to be generous and courageous, and may He bless us with His love and guidance.