Hadith #2331

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "المعروف زكاة النعم" which translates to

Benevolence is the alms-tax for blessings.

This thought-provoking Hadith highlights the importance of showing kindness, generosity, and doing good deeds as a means of expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by exploring the key words and concepts within it. The word (al-ma'ruf) "المعروف" refers to acts of goodness, kindness, and benevolence. It encompasses all virtuous actions that benefit others and promote harmony within society. This includes acts of charity, compassion, justice, and any form of assistance or support extended to those in need.

The term (zakat) "زكاة" is commonly understood as the obligatory alms-tax that Muslims are required to give from their wealth. However, in this context, it carries a broader meaning. It signifies purification, growth, and the act of giving back a portion of one's blessings to benefit others. Just as zakat purifies one's wealth, benevolence purifies the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7),

Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.

This verse emphasizes the importance of spending from our blessings for the sake of Allah and the benefit of others.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth. And do not aim toward the defective therefrom, spending [from that] while you would not take it [yourself] except with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving from the best of what we have earned and not merely from what is left over or of lesser quality.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the connection between gratitude, blessings, and acts of kindness. When we recognize the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah, it is our duty to express gratitude by using those blessings to benefit others. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligation to help those in need but also purify and grow the blessings we have been given.

Practicing benevolence has profound consequences. It fosters a sense of empathy, compassion, and unity within society. It strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims and promotes a culture of generosity and selflessness. Moreover, it brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and earns His pleasure, as He loves those who are kind and generous.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the immense responsibility we have as Muslims to utilize our blessings for the betterment of others. Whether it is through acts of charity, volunteering, or simply showing kindness to those around us, we have the power to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Let us strive to embody the spirit of benevolence and fulfill our duty as stewards of the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. May He grant us the ability to practice benevolence and may it serve as a means of purifying and multiplying our blessings.