Hadith #457

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "أفضَلُ السَّخاءِ اَلإيثارُ۔" This can be translated as,

The most excellent generosity is self-sacrifice.

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

The word (sakhā') "سَخَاء" in Arabic refers to generosity, liberality, and magnanimity. It encompasses the act of giving and sharing with others without expecting anything in return. It is a quality highly praised in Islam, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) Himself is Al-Karim, the Most Generous.

The word (īthār) "إِيثَار" is derived from the root word (athara) "أَثَرَ", which means to prefer, prioritize, or give preference to others over oneself. It signifies the act of self-sacrifice, where one willingly puts the needs and well-being of others before their own.

The exegesis of this Hadith can be found in numerous verses of the Quran that emphasize the importance of selflessness and self-sacrifice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9):

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) during the early days of Islam. Despite their own limited resources, the Ansar preferred the needs of the Muhajirun over their own, displaying the essence of self-sacrifice and generosity.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Insan (76:9):

They give food, despite their own 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 describes the actions of the righteous believers who feed the needy, even though they themselves have a desire for the food they give. Their selflessness and willingness to sacrifice their own desires for the sake of Allah's pleasure exemplify the concept of self-sacrifice and generosity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes that the highest form of generosity is not merely giving, but rather giving to the extent of self-sacrifice. It encourages Muslims to prioritize the needs of others over their own desires and comforts. This selflessness is a reflection of the Prophetic teachings and the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom.

When we practice self-sacrifice and prioritize the well-being of others, we create a society based on compassion, empathy, and unity. It fosters an environment where individuals are willing to go beyond their own needs to alleviate the suffering of others. This act of selflessness not only benefits the recipients but also purifies the souls of those who engage in it.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true generosity lies in self-sacrifice. It urges Muslims to prioritize the needs of others over their own desires and comforts. By doing so, we embody the essence of Islam and follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice self-sacrifice and become beacons of generosity in our communities.