Hadith #9141

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أفْضَلُ الكَرَمِ إتْمامُ النِّعَمِ

which translates to

The most excellent munificence is completing [one’s] favours.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (karami) "كَرَمِ" in this Hadith refers to munificence or generosity. It signifies the act of bestowing favors or blessings upon others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the highest form of generosity is to complete the favors that we have bestowed upon others. This means that it is not enough to simply initiate acts of kindness, but we must also follow through and fulfill our commitments to others.

This concept of completing favors finds resonance in the Quran as well. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 17:34)

And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.

This verse highlights the importance of fulfilling our promises and obligations, as they will be questioned on the Day of Judgment. By completing our favors, we demonstrate integrity, sincerity, and a sense of responsibility towards others.

Additionally, the Quran emphasizes the significance of gratitude and appreciation for the favors bestowed upon us. In Surah Ibrahim, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 14:7)

And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'

This verse reminds us that expressing gratitude for the blessings we receive leads to an increase in those blessings. Therefore, completing favors not only benefits the recipient but also brings about an increase in divine blessings for the giver.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of completing favors because it reflects the true essence of generosity. When we initiate acts of kindness, we plant the seeds of goodness. However, it is through the completion of these favors that we nurture and cultivate those seeds, allowing them to flourish and bear fruit.

By completing our favors, we inspire others to do the same. When people witness our commitment and dedication to fulfilling our obligations, they are encouraged to reciprocate and extend their own acts of kindness. This creates a cycle of generosity and compassion within society, fostering an environment of harmony and unity.

Moreover, completing favors has a profound impact on our own spiritual growth. It instills within us a sense of humility, gratitude, and selflessness. When we fulfill our commitments, we develop a strong character and a reputation for reliability. This, in turn, strengthens our relationships and builds trust with others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the most excellent form of generosity is to complete the favors we have bestowed upon others. This concept is supported by various Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of fulfilling commitments and expressing gratitude. By completing favors, we demonstrate integrity, inspire others, and foster a culture of generosity within society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to fulfill our obligations and be among those who excel in acts of munificence.