Hadith #5682

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

الصدقة تستدفع البلاء والنقمة

which translates to

Charity repels tribulation and calamity.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the immense power and significance of charity in the life of a Muslim.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (sadaqah) "صدقة" refers to voluntary acts of charity, which can include giving money, food, or any form of assistance to those in need. The term (tastadfi'u) "تستدفع" means to repel or ward off, indicating that charity has the ability to push away or prevent tribulations and calamities. Lastly, (al-bala') "البلاء" refers to trials, hardships, or afflictions that a person may face, while (an-niqmah) "النقمة" refers to divine punishment or retribution.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can 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 emphasizes the immense blessings and rewards that come from giving in the way of Allah. By giving charity, we not only benefit those in need but also receive abundant blessings from Allah.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah At-Tawbah (9:103),

Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [Allah's blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.

This verse highlights the purification and increase that comes from giving charity. It purifies the wealth of the giver and increases their blessings and provisions.

From these Quranic verses, we can understand that charity is not merely a financial transaction but a means of purification, increase, and protection from tribulations. When we give in the way of Allah, we are not only helping those in need but also seeking His pleasure and protection. By repelling tribulations and calamities, charity becomes a shield for the giver and a means of attaining Allah's mercy and blessings.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the power of charity in our lives. When we selflessly give to others, we are not only fulfilling our duty as Muslims but also safeguarding ourselves from the trials and tribulations that may come our way. The act of charity is an expression of gratitude to Allah for the blessings He has bestowed upon us and a means of seeking His protection and mercy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that charity has the power to repel tribulations and calamities. By giving in the way of Allah, we not only help those in need but also purify ourselves, increase our blessings, and seek Allah's protection. Let us strive to be generous and charitable, knowing that our acts of kindness have the potential to bring immense blessings and shield us from the hardships of life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) enable us to be charitable and grant us His mercy and protection.