Hadith #5681

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 righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الصدقة تستنزل الرحمة" which translates to

Charity brings down mercy.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

Let us first delve into the key words of this Hadith. (As-Sadaqah) "الصدقة" refers to charity, which is the act of giving to those in need with sincerity and without expecting anything in return. It encompasses various forms of giving, such as monetary donations, acts of kindness, and offering assistance to those in distress.

The word (Tastanzil) "تستنزل" means to descend or come down. In the context of this Hadith, it implies that mercy descends upon the one who engages in acts of charity. This descent of mercy signifies the blessings and divine favor that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bestows upon the person who selflessly gives to others.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261):

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 highlights the immense rewards and blessings that come with giving in the path of Allah. Just as a single seed can yield a bountiful harvest, the act of charity multiplies the blessings and brings forth abundant mercy from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over? And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance, and to Him you will be returned.

This verse emphasizes the concept of giving as a loan to Allah, with the promise of multiplied rewards. When we give in charity, we are essentially lending to Allah, and He, in His infinite mercy, multiplies our good deeds and showers us with blessings.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we can draw several profound insights. Firstly, charity is not merely an act of financial assistance; it is a means of attaining the mercy and blessings of Allah. By giving selflessly, we open ourselves to the divine favor and grace that descends upon the charitable.

Secondly, this Hadith highlights the interconnectedness of charity and mercy. When we extend a helping hand to those in need, we become a channel through which Allah's mercy flows. Our acts of charity not only benefit the recipients but also bring us closer to Allah and increase His mercy in our lives.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to engage in acts of charity. Knowing that charity brings down mercy, we are encouraged to be generous and compassionate towards others. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as believers but also invite the mercy and blessings of Allah into our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the profound connection between charity and mercy. Through acts of selfless giving, we become recipients of Allah's abundant blessings and experience the descent of His mercy upon us. Let us strive to embody the spirit of charity and seek the pleasure of Allah by extending a helping hand to those in need. May Allah grant us the ability to give generously and may His mercy encompass us all.