Hadith #3444

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

مِنْ أفْضَلِ الاخْتيارِ التَّحَلّي بِالإيثارِ۔

This can be translated as,

From the best of choices is adorning oneself with selflessness.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (tahallī) "تَحَلّي" in the Hadith refers to adorning or beautifying oneself with a particular quality. In this context, it signifies the act of cultivating and embodying selflessness. The word (i'thār) "إيثار" means to prioritize others over oneself, to give preference to the needs and well-being of others before one's own. It is an act of generosity and sacrifice, driven by a genuine concern for the welfare of others.

The Quran emphasizes the virtue of selflessness and the importance of prioritizing the needs of others. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 Medina) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Mecca) despite their own limited resources. They prioritized the needs of their fellow Muslims over their own, displaying the essence of selflessness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the righteous believers by saying,

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 exemplifies the act of selflessness through the act of giving food to those in need, without expecting anything in return. It emphasizes that the motivation behind such acts should solely be for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure and not seeking any worldly reward or recognition.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the importance of selflessness as a choice and a virtue that should be embraced by Muslims. By adorning ourselves with selflessness, we not only fulfill our duty towards others but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Selflessness allows us to transcend our own desires and ego, and instead focus on the well-being and happiness of those around us. It is a quality that fosters unity, compassion, and empathy within the Muslim community.

Practicing selflessness can have profound consequences in our lives. It strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims, creating a sense of unity and solidarity. It also fosters a culture of generosity and kindness, where individuals actively seek opportunities to help and support one another. Moreover, selflessness serves as a means of purifying our souls and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a reflection of the Prophetic teachings and the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who exemplified selflessness in his actions and interactions with others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of adorning ourselves with selflessness. It urges us to prioritize the needs and well-being of others over our own, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in our actions. By practicing selflessness, we not only fulfill our duty towards others but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody this noble quality and may it become a defining characteristic of the Muslim ummah.