Hadith #9159

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

مِنَ الكَرَمِ إتْمامُ النِّعَمِ

which translates to

Completion of favours is part of munificence.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of fulfilling and completing the favors bestowed upon us, as an act of generosity and kindness.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (karam) "كَرَم" refers to generosity, nobility, and magnanimity. It is an attribute that encompasses acts of kindness, benevolence, and bestowing favors upon others. (itmaam) "إتْمَام" means completion or fulfillment, indicating the importance of carrying out favors until their conclusion. (ni'am) "نِعَم" refers to blessings, favors, or bounties that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the completion of favors and the importance of gratitude. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152),

So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.

This verse reminds us of the reciprocal nature of gratitude, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to remember and reward those who are grateful to Him.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Insan (76:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, this is for you a reward, and your effort has been appreciated.

This verse highlights that the completion of favors and efforts made in the path of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) are not in vain. They are acknowledged and rewarded by Him.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that true generosity lies not only in initiating acts of kindness but also in seeing them through to their completion. It is not enough to start a favor or extend a helping hand; rather, it is equally important to follow through and fulfill the favor until its conclusion. This completion demonstrates sincerity, commitment, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others.

For example, if we offer financial assistance to someone in need, it is not enough to simply provide the initial support. True munificence requires us to ensure that the person's needs are fully met, and they are able to regain stability and independence. Similarly, if we offer our time and assistance to someone, it is essential to see the task through to its completion, ensuring that the person receives the necessary support and guidance.

By completing favors, we not only fulfill our obligations but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and compassion within the Muslim community. It fosters a sense of trust and reliance on one another, knowing that we can count on each other to fulfill our commitments. Moreover, it reflects the character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. His teachings emphasize the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities and completing acts of kindness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true generosity lies in the completion of favors. It is not enough to initiate acts of kindness; we must see them through to their conclusion. This principle aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize gratitude and the recognition of Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) blessings. By fulfilling favors, we demonstrate sincerity, commitment, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the spirit of munificence and complete the favors bestowed upon us.