Hadith #9391

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْعُ الكَريمِ أحْسَنُ مِنْ إعْطاءِ اللَّئيمِ

which translates to

The withholding of the honourable one is better than the granting of the vile one.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of discernment and wisdom in dealing with others.

Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. (man'u) "مَنْعُ" means "withholding" or "preventing," and it implies the act of refraining from giving or granting something. (al-karim) "الكَريمِ" refers to the "honourable" or "generous" person, someone who possesses noble qualities and high moral standards. On the other hand, (al-la'im) "اللَّئيمِ" refers to the "vile" or "wicked" individual, someone who lacks integrity and displays immoral behavior.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2),

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.

This verse emphasizes the importance of discernment in our interactions with others. While it is commendable to help and assist those in need, it is equally important to exercise caution and withhold our support from those who engage in wrongdoing.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:58), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And if you fear treachery from a people, then throw back to them [their treaty] fairly or else withhold your hands.

This verse highlights the wisdom of withholding one's support or assistance when there is a genuine concern of betrayal or harm. It is better to refrain from aiding those who may misuse our generosity or act against our best interests.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reflects his deep understanding of human nature and the importance of discernment in our interactions. By withholding assistance or support from the wicked, we prevent them from furthering their harmful actions and protect ourselves from being complicit in their wrongdoing. This act of withholding is not an act of selfishness or cruelty, but rather a demonstration of wisdom and righteousness.

For example, if a person known for their dishonesty seeks financial assistance, it is better to withhold our support rather than enabling their unethical behavior. By doing so, we discourage their dishonesty and encourage them to rectify their ways. This approach aligns with the Quranic principle of enjoining righteousness and forbidding evil.

Moreover, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions. It encourages us to be selective in our associations and to align ourselves with those who possess noble qualities and uphold moral values. By doing so, we create an environment that fosters goodness and discourages wickedness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of discernment and wisdom in our interactions with others. It reminds us to withhold our support from those who display vile characteristics and to prioritize righteousness in our actions. By doing so, we contribute to the establishment of a just and virtuous society, in accordance with the teachings of the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to discern between good and evil and guide us on the path of righteousness.