Hadith #9724

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَعَ الثَّرْوَةِ تَظْهَرُ المُرُوَّةُ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

With affluence, magnanimity becomes manifested.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. "Tharwah" refers to wealth or affluence, while "muruwwah" can be translated as magnanimity, nobility, or chivalry. It signifies the noble qualities that are displayed by an individual when they possess wealth or abundance.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of maintaining steadfastness and integrity in all aspects of life, including wealth and affluence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that wealth and affluence come with responsibilities and obligations. It is through the display of magnanimity and noble qualities that one fulfills these responsibilities and uses their wealth for the betterment of society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes in this Hadith that true magnanimity and nobility are not merely dependent on material possessions, but rather on how one utilizes their wealth. When a person possesses affluence, it becomes a test of their character and moral values. It is during this test that their true nature is revealed.

For instance, a person who is generous and charitable with their wealth demonstrates magnanimity. They use their affluence to help the needy, support charitable causes, and contribute to the welfare of society. This is in line with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages believers to spend in the way of Allah and help those in need.

On the other hand, a person who becomes arrogant, selfish, and stingy when they acquire wealth fails the test of magnanimity. They hoard their riches, neglect the rights of others, and become disconnected from the needs of society. Such behavior goes against the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of compassion, empathy, and generosity.

The consequences of manifesting magnanimity or failing to do so are significant. When a person displays true magnanimity, they not only benefit others but also attain spiritual growth and fulfillment. Their wealth becomes a means of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seeking His pleasure. Conversely, those who fail to manifest magnanimity not only harm themselves but also contribute to the injustices and inequalities prevalent in society.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded of the importance of using their wealth and affluence in a responsible and noble manner. It is not the mere possession of wealth that defines a person's character, but rather how they utilize it for the betterment of society. True magnanimity lies in being generous, charitable, and mindful of the needs of others, regardless of one's financial status.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that with affluence comes the opportunity to display magnanimity and noble qualities. It is through the proper utilization of wealth that one's true character is revealed. By reflecting on the teachings of the Quran and the example set by Imam Ali, Muslims are encouraged to be generous, charitable, and mindful of their responsibilities towards society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to manifest true magnanimity in all aspects of our lives.