Hadith #3047

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 Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he expresses his astonishment at a person who is approached by his Muslim brother in need but refuses to fulfill it. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) wonders how such a person can deny the opportunity to do good and not consider themselves worthy of it. He then urges us to assume that such a person does not seek any reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) nor does he fear any punishment from Him. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) questions whether such individuals lack interest in acquiring noble traits.

To fully understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and concepts it presents. The first important word is (Muslim) "مسلم", which refers to a person who submits to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and follows the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and unity among Muslims.

The next word is (need) "حاجة", which signifies a requirement or necessity that someone seeks assistance with. It could be a material need, such as food or shelter, or an emotional need, such as support or guidance. This highlights the responsibility of Muslims to help one another in times of need.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his amazement at the person who refuses to fulfill the needs of his Muslim brother. He wonders how someone can deny the opportunity to do good and not consider themselves worthy of it. This raises the question of self-worth and humility. Islam teaches us that every individual has the potential to do good and make a positive impact in the lives of others, regardless of their perceived worthiness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then urges us to assume that such a person does not seek any reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) nor does he fear any punishment from Him. This highlights the concept of sincerity in our actions. True believers perform good deeds solely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure and not seeking any worldly rewards or recognition.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177:

It is not righteousness that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the needs of others, particularly those who are less fortunate. It highlights that true righteousness lies in believing in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His teachings, and then acting upon them by giving generously to those in need. It is through these actions that one demonstrates true faith and acquires noble traits.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Insan, verse 8, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive.

This verse emphasizes the importance of selflessness and sacrificing one's own desires for the sake of helping others. It reminds us that true believers are those who give generously, even if it means giving up something they love.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we can draw several important lessons. Firstly, as Muslims, we are obligated to help our fellow brothers and sisters in need. We should not hesitate to fulfill their needs, regardless of our own perceived worthiness or the potential rewards or punishments. Our actions should be driven by sincere intentions and a desire to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone.

Secondly, this Hadith reminds us of the importance of selflessness and sacrificing our own desires for the sake of others. We should be willing to give up our time, resources, and comfort to help those in need. By doing so, we acquire noble traits and demonstrate true righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to fulfill the needs of their fellow brothers and sisters in need. It highlights the importance of selflessness, sincerity, and acquiring noble traits. By reflecting on this Hadith and the supporting Quranic verses, we can strive to become better Muslims and fulfill our responsibilities towards one another. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and enable us to be of service to our fellow Muslims.