Hadith #2519

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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, "بِالإفْضالِ تَعْظُمُ الأقْدارُ۔" This can be translated as,

By doing good to others, ranks get elevated.

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (ifdāl) "إفضال", which means "doing good" or "excellence." It refers to acts of kindness, generosity, and benevolence towards others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of such actions, as they have the power to elevate one's status and increase their worth in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the idea of elevating one's ranks through acts of goodness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:11),

Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over? And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance, and to Him you will be returned.

This verse highlights the concept of giving to others in the way of Allah, which results in multiplied rewards and an elevated status.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.

This verse emphasizes the importance of preserving life and doing good to others, as it carries immense value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to engage in acts of kindness and generosity, as they have far-reaching consequences. When we extend a helping hand to those in need, we not only benefit them but also elevate our own ranks in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Our actions have a ripple effect, spreading positivity and inspiring others to follow suit.

For example, when we give charity to the poor and needy, we not only alleviate their suffering but also inspire others to do the same. This creates a cycle of goodness that continues to grow and benefit society as a whole. By engaging in acts of kindness, we become a source of hope and compassion, and our ranks are elevated in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

On the other hand, neglecting to do good and failing to help others can have detrimental consequences. In Surah Al-Ma'un (107:1-3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense? For that is the one who drives away the orphan and does not encourage the feeding of the poor.

This verse highlights the severity of neglecting acts of kindness and the dire consequences that follow.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of doing good to others. By engaging in acts of kindness, we not only benefit those around us but also elevate our own ranks in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Our actions have the power to inspire and create a positive impact that extends far beyond our immediate surroundings. Let us strive to be agents of goodness and compassion, following the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and seeking to elevate our ranks in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to do good and bless us with His mercy and forgiveness.