Hadith #6717

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the concept of the plenitude of religion and the dignity that can be attained through the generous spending of wealth. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance in light of the Quran.

The word (wufuur) "وُفُورُ" in the Hadith refers to abundance, plenty, or profusion. It signifies the concept of having an ample amount of something. In this context, it refers to the abundance of religion, which implies the richness and completeness of one's faith. It emphasizes the importance of having a deep and comprehensive understanding of religion, encompassing all aspects of belief, worship, and moral conduct.

The word (deen) "دّينِ" in the Hadith refers to religion. It encompasses the entirety of one's faith, encompassing beliefs, rituals, and moral values. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses the relationship between an individual and their Creator, as well as their obligations towards fellow human beings.

The word (irad) "عِرضِ" in the Hadith refers to dignity, honor, or prestige. It signifies the respect and esteem that one enjoys in society. It is acquired through virtuous actions and noble conduct, which includes the generous spending of wealth for the sake of Allah.

The phrase (ibtidhaal al-amwaal) "بِابْتِذالِ الأمْوالِ" in the Hadith translates to

through generously spending wealth.

It emphasizes the act of giving and spending one's wealth for charitable purposes, seeking the pleasure of Allah and benefiting others. This act of generosity not only benefits the recipients but also elevates the status and dignity of the giver in the eyes of Allah and society.

The Hadith emphasizes that the act of generously spending wealth is a sublime gift. It highlights the spiritual and worldly benefits that come with selfless giving. Let us now explore the Quranic verses that support and elucidate this concept.

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the immense reward and blessings that come with spending wealth in the cause of Allah. Just as a single seed yields a bountiful harvest, the act of giving generously multiplies the rewards and blessings manifold.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.

This verse highlights the correlation between belief, spending in the way of Allah, and the promise of a great reward. It emphasizes that true faith is manifested through generous giving and selflessness.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to strive for the plenitude of religion and the acquisition of dignity through the generous spending of wealth. By giving generously for the sake of Allah, Muslims not only fulfill their religious obligations but also attain a higher spiritual status and earn the respect and honor of their fellow human beings.

Generosity is a virtue that is highly praised in Islam. It is a means of purifying one's wealth, cultivating compassion and empathy, and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community. Moreover, it is a means of seeking the pleasure of Allah and attaining His forgiveness and mercy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the importance of the plenitude of religion and the dignity that can be attained through the generous spending of wealth. It encourages Muslims to embrace the virtue of generosity, as it not only benefits the recipients but also elevates the status and honor of the giver. By following this noble path, Muslims can strive towards a more complete and fulfilling religious experience, both in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to embody the teachings of this Hadith and become generous and compassionate individuals.