Hadith #2350

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

المعروف كنز فانظر عند من تودعه

which translates to

Benevolence is a treasure so consider whom you are leaving it with.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of performing acts of kindness and goodness, and also emphasizes the significance of choosing the right recipient for such acts.

Let us delve deeper into the key words of this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The word (al-ma'ruf) "المعروف" refers to acts of goodness, kindness, and benevolence. It encompasses all actions that are considered virtuous and beneficial to others. It includes acts such as charity, helping the needy, showing compassion, and fulfilling the rights of others.

The word (kanz) "كنز" means treasure or a valuable possession. It signifies the immense worth and significance of performing acts of benevolence. Just as a treasure is cherished and protected, so should acts of goodness be valued and safeguarded.

The phrase (fanẓur 'ind man tawadda'ahu)

فانظر عند من تودعه

translates to

consider whom you are leaving it with.

This phrase emphasizes the importance of choosing the right recipient for acts of kindness. It encourages Muslims to be mindful of the character, integrity, and deservingness of the person they choose to bestow their benevolence upon.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of spending in the way of Allah and performing acts of goodness. It encourages Muslims to be generous and kind-hearted, but also cautions against recklessness and wastefulness. It reminds us to be mindful of the consequences of our actions and to choose wisely when bestowing our benevolence.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse emphasizes the importance of cooperating in righteousness and piety. It encourages Muslims to join hands in performing acts of goodness and to support one another in virtuous endeavors. However, it also warns against cooperating in sin and aggression, reminding us to be cautious and discerning in choosing the recipients of our benevolence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the impact and consequences of their acts of kindness. It encourages us to carefully consider the character, intentions, and deservingness of the individuals we choose to bestow our benevolence upon. By doing so, we ensure that our acts of goodness are utilized in the most beneficial and righteous manner.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which is evident in this Hadith. His words guide us to be discerning and thoughtful in our actions, reminding us that acts of benevolence should not be performed haphazardly, but rather with careful consideration and intention.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that acts of kindness and goodness are treasures that should be valued and protected. It urges us to choose the right recipients for our benevolence, ensuring that our actions have the most positive and beneficial impact. May we all strive to embody the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and perform acts of goodness with wisdom and sincerity.