Hadith #9229

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "خَيْرُ المَكارِمِ الإيثارُ۔" This can be translated as,

The best of noble traits is altruism.

In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of selflessness and putting others before oneself.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. The word "مَكارِمِ" refers to noble traits or virtues, and it signifies the qualities that elevate a person's character and morality. These virtues are not only praiseworthy in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but they also contribute to the betterment of society.

The word "إيثارُ" is translated as altruism, which means selflessness or the act of prioritizing the needs and well-being of others above one's own. It encompasses acts of kindness, generosity, and sacrifice for the sake of others. Altruism is a virtue that requires a person to transcend their own desires and ego, and to genuinely care for the welfare of others.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of selflessness and altruism. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah says,

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the exemplary behavior of the Ansar (the residents of Madinah) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Makkah). Despite their own hardships and limited resources, the Ansar selflessly prioritized the needs of the Muhajirun over their own. This selflessness is praised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and is considered a characteristic of successful believers.

Another verse that emphasizes the importance of altruism is found in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9), where Allah says,

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 highlights the selfless act of feeding the needy, the orphan, and the captive, solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The believers in this verse demonstrate true altruism by expecting no reward or gratitude from those they help. Their intention is solely to please Allah and seek His pleasure.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith aligns perfectly with these Quranic teachings. Altruism is not only a noble trait but also a fundamental aspect of Islam. It is through selflessness and putting the needs of others before our own that we can truly embody the teachings of our faith.

When we practice altruism, we create a positive impact on society. By helping those in need, we contribute to the well-being and happiness of others. This act of selflessness also strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community.

Furthermore, altruism has a transformative effect on the individual. It purifies the heart from selfish desires and cultivates empathy, compassion, and gratitude. It allows us to transcend our own ego and connect with the greater purpose of serving humanity. Through acts of altruism, we become closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and emulate the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of altruism as the best of noble traits. By prioritizing the needs of others over our own, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of society. Let us strive to embody this virtue in our daily lives and follow the example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice altruism and be a source of goodness for others.