Hadith #10523

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

مَنْ كَرُمَتْ نَفْسُهُ اِسْتَهانَ بِالبَذْلِ والإسْعافِ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose soul is noble finds it easy to give generously and help others.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. Firstly, it is important to understand the key words in this Hadith.

The word (karumat) "كَرُمَتْ" refers to the nobility or honor of one's soul. It signifies a person's inner qualities and virtues, such as generosity, kindness, and selflessness. This nobility of the soul is a characteristic that is highly valued in Islam.

The word (badl) "بَذْلِ" means giving or spending in the way of Allah. It encompasses acts of charity, providing assistance, and offering help to those in need. It reflects the selflessness and willingness to sacrifice for the betterment of others.

The word (is'af) "إِسْعافِ" refers to offering aid or support to those who are in distress or facing difficulties. It encompasses both physical and emotional support, showing empathy and compassion towards others.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that support and provide a deeper understanding of this Hadith. 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 concept of giving generously and spending in the way of Allah. It highlights the immense rewards that await those who selflessly give for the sake of Allah. The noble soul mentioned in the Hadith is one that understands the value and blessings of giving and finds it easy to do so.

Another verse that complements this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9):

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 selflessness and sincerity of those who give for the sake of Allah. They do not seek any worldly gain or recognition but solely aim to please Allah and help those in need. Such individuals possess noble souls that find it easy to give generously and help others.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand that a person with a noble soul is driven by a deep sense of empathy and compassion. They find joy and fulfillment in giving and assisting others. Their selflessness is rooted in their understanding of the teachings of Islam and their desire to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate and nurture the nobility of their souls. It encourages us to be generous, kind, and helpful towards others, regardless of their social status or background. By embodying the qualities mentioned in this Hadith, we can strive to become better individuals and contribute positively to our communities.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to develop noble souls that find it easy to give generously and help others. May we be inspired by the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to emulate his knowledge and selflessness. Ameen.