Hadith #9139

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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, "أحْسَنُ الكَرَمِ اَلإيثارُ۔" which translates to

The best munificence is altruism.

This Hadith emphasizes the virtue of selflessness and putting others before oneself. Let us delve deeper into the meaning and significance of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. (ahsanu) "أحْسَنُ" means the best or the most excellent. (alkarami) "الكَرَمِ" refers to munificence or generosity, while (al-i'thar) "الإيثارُ" signifies altruism or selflessness.

The Quran repeatedly encourages believers to be generous and selfless. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:92)

You will never attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love. And whatever you spend - indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.

This verse highlights the importance of giving from what we hold dear and love, demonstrating the essence of selflessness and sacrifice.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hashr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) praises the Ansar, the inhabitants of Madinah who supported the Prophet (ﷺ) and the Muhajirun, saying, (Quran 59:9)

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse exemplifies the concept of altruism and selflessness, as the Ansar prioritized the needs of the Muhajirun over their own, despite facing their own hardships.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes that the pinnacle of generosity lies in selflessness. It is not merely about giving, but about giving without expecting anything in return, without considering one's own needs or desires. True altruism is when we prioritize the well-being and happiness of others above our own, without seeking recognition or reward.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the spirit of selflessness in their daily lives. It encourages us to be generous with our time, resources, and efforts, not only towards our family and friends but also towards the wider community. By practicing altruism, we contribute to the betterment of society and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims.

Moreover, this Hadith highlights the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His deep understanding of the teachings of Islam, derived from his close companionship with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his infallible status, enabled him to articulate such profound statements. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) knowledge and wisdom continue to inspire and guide Muslims to this day.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of selflessness and altruism. It reminds us to prioritize the needs of others over our own and to give without expecting anything in return. By embodying the spirit of selflessness, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among believers. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice true altruism and may He reward us abundantly for our selfless acts.