Hadith #10030

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us against the act of reserving or concealing something that rightfully belongs to all people. The Arabic word used in the Hadith is (al-istitār) "الاِسْتِتارَ", which means to reserve or conceal. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be cautious and refrain from holding back or hiding what should be shared equally among people.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (57:7)

And know that whatever you obtain of war booty - indeed, for Allah is one fifth of it and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and the orphans, the needy, and the [stranded] traveler, if you have believed in Allah and in that which We sent down to Our Servant on the day of criterion - the day when the two armies met. And Allah, over all things, is competent

This verse highlights the importance of distributing wealth and resources fairly among various categories of people. It emphasizes the need to share and not reserve what rightfully belongs to others. By doing so, we fulfill our obligations towards Allah and His creation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith also warns against turning a blind eye to what is evident and clear to others. This implies that we should not ignore or overlook the truth when it is apparent to everyone. We should not be deceived by our own biases or personal interests, but rather strive to uphold justice and truth.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:182)

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted

This verse emphasizes the importance of standing firm in justice and being witnesses for Allah, even if it goes against our own interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that Allah's commandments should always take precedence over our personal inclinations. We should not distort the truth or refuse to acknowledge it, as Allah is fully aware of our actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their responsibilities towards others. It warns against selfishness, greed, and the hoarding of resources. By sharing what we have with others and being just in our dealings, we contribute to a more equitable and harmonious society.

This Hadith also highlights the consequences of disregarding these principles. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns that if we persist in reserving and concealing what should be shared, it will eventually be taken away from us and given to someone else. This serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, and we will be held accountable for our choices.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to be mindful of their responsibilities towards others and to avoid reserving or concealing what rightfully belongs to all people. It reminds us to uphold justice, share our resources, and not turn a blind eye to the truth. By doing so, we contribute to a more just and compassionate society, pleasing Allah and following the example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness.