Hadith #4751

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises Muslims to embrace two important qualities: generosity (sakhā') and good etiquette (ḥusn al-khulq). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that these two traits have significant benefits, as they increase sustenance and foster love and admiration among people.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. "Sakhā'" refers to the act of giving generously and selflessly. It entails sharing one's wealth, resources, and time with others without expecting anything in return. "Ḥusn al-khulq" refers to possessing good manners, etiquettes, and a noble character. It encompasses traits such as kindness, patience, humility, and honesty in one's interactions with others.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the importance of generosity and good etiquette. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (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 highlights the immense blessings and increase in sustenance that result from acts of generosity.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Qalam (68:4):

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse praises the noble character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who was the epitome of good etiquette. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet (ﷺ) and strive to embody good manners and noble conduct.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that embracing generosity and good etiquette not only have spiritual rewards but also practical benefits in this world. When we are generous and kind to others, we create a positive and harmonious environment. People are naturally drawn to those who possess these qualities, and it fosters love, respect, and admiration among individuals and communities.

Moreover, generosity and good etiquette have a profound impact on our sustenance. When we give selflessly and share our blessings with others, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) increases our provisions. This increase is not limited to material wealth but also encompasses blessings in our relationships, health, and overall well-being. By embodying these qualities, we create a virtuous cycle where our acts of generosity attract more blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

For instance, when we are generous with our wealth, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) may bless us with increased financial opportunities, unexpected sources of income, or protection from financial difficulties. Similarly, when we exhibit good etiquette in our interactions, we build strong and meaningful relationships, which can lead to opportunities, support, and success in various aspects of our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of embracing generosity and good etiquette. These qualities not only have spiritual rewards but also practical benefits in this world. By being generous and kind, we create a positive environment, foster love and admiration, and increase our sustenance. Let us strive to embody these traits in our daily lives and follow the example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to practice generosity and good etiquette and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.