Hadith #9164

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One of the signs of nobleness is hastening in [giving] reward.

This Hadith highlights the virtue of promptly rewarding good deeds and acts of kindness. To fully understand the depth and significance of this statement, let us delve into the key words and their meanings.

The word (signs) "عَلَامَاتِ" refers to indicators or distinguishing characteristics. It signifies that hastening in giving rewards is not only a noble trait but also a recognizable sign of nobility. The term (nobleness) "الكَرَمِ" refers to generosity, magnanimity, and excellence in character. It encompasses the qualities of kindness, benevolence, and selflessness.

The phrase (hastening in [giving] reward) "تَعْجِيلُ المَثُوبَةِ" emphasizes the importance of promptly acknowledging and rewarding good deeds. It implies that a noble person does not delay in recognizing and appreciating the efforts of others. This hastening in rewarding others is a reflection of their noble character and their commitment to justice and fairness.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of rewarding good deeds and hastening in doing so. In Surah Al-Imran (3:195), Allah says,

And their Lord responded to them, 'Never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female; you are of one another.'

This verse highlights Allah's promise to reward every good deed, ensuring that none go unnoticed or unrewarded.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:58), Allah states,

And [recall] when We said, 'Enter this city and eat from it wherever you will in [ease and] abundance, and enter the gate bowing humbly and say, 'Relieve us of our burdens.' We will [then] forgive your sins for you, and We will increase the doers of good [in goodness and reward].'

This verse demonstrates Allah's willingness to reward those who perform good deeds and seek His forgiveness.

The exegesis of this Hadith reveals profound insights into the character of a noble person. By hastening in rewarding others, they demonstrate their commitment to justice, fairness, and appreciation for the efforts of others. This trait motivates and encourages individuals to continue performing good deeds, knowing that their actions will not go unnoticed or unrewarded.

Furthermore, hastening in giving rewards has significant consequences. It fosters a culture of gratitude and appreciation within society, promoting unity and harmony among individuals. When people witness the prompt recognition and reward of good deeds, they are inspired to emulate such behavior, creating a positive ripple effect that benefits the entire community.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages Muslims to reflect on their own actions and consider how they can hasten in rewarding others. It serves as a reminder to be vigilant in acknowledging the efforts of those around us and to promptly express gratitude for their contributions. By doing so, we not only uphold the noble character of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of hastening in giving rewards as a sign of nobleness. By promptly recognizing and appreciating the efforts of others, we uphold justice, foster unity, and inspire others to continue performing good deeds. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody this noble trait and may He reward us abundantly for our good deeds.