Hadith #9219

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

الكريم من بذل إحسانه

which translates to

The munificent person is one who bestows his favours generously [to others].

In this wise utterance, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the noble quality of generosity and selflessness.

The word (al-karim) "الكريم" in the Hadith refers to someone who is generous, noble, and honorable in their actions. This person is known for their willingness to give and help others without expecting anything in return. They are characterized by their selflessness and kindness towards others.

The word (bathala) "بذل" means to give or bestow. It signifies the act of offering something to someone else, whether it be material possessions, time, or even emotional support. The act of giving is not limited to just one aspect of life but encompasses all forms of generosity.

The word (ihsanahu) "إحسانه" refers to acts of kindness and goodness. It includes any action that brings benefit and goodness to others. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses acts of charity, compassion, forgiveness, and any other act that promotes well-being and harmony in society.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of generosity and selflessness in several verses.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:92)

You will never attain righteousness until you spend [in the way of Allah] from that which you love. And whatever you spend - indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.

This verse highlights the idea that true righteousness and piety are achieved through selfless acts of giving and generosity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Insan, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the righteous believers, saying, (Quran 76:8-9)

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse exemplifies the spirit of generosity and selflessness, where believers give without expecting anything in return, solely seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of selfless giving and generosity in Islam. It encourages Muslims to be munificent individuals who are always ready to help others and share their blessings. The act of giving not only benefits those who receive but also purifies the soul of the giver, fostering a sense of gratitude and humility.

When we embody the qualities of generosity and selflessness, we become a source of goodness and blessings for others. Our actions have the potential to inspire and uplift those around us, creating a positive ripple effect in society. Moreover, acts of generosity are rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) both in this world and the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of being munificent individuals who generously bestow their favours upon others. It encourages us to embody the noble quality of generosity and selflessness, following the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble Ahl al-Bayt. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be truly generous and selfless in our actions.