Hadith #10619

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, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

Your garments are more lasting for you when worn by others rather than yourself.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries deep wisdom and insight into the nature of possessions and their true value.

Let us first examine the important words in this Hadith. The word (thiyabuka) "ثِيابُكَ" refers to "your garments," symbolizing one's material possessions. The word (ala) "عَلى" means "on" or "upon," indicating the state of possession or ownership. The word (ghayrika) "غَيْرِكَ" means "others," implying that the garments are being worn by someone other than the owner. Finally, the word (abqa) "أبْقى" means "more lasting" or "more enduring," highlighting the idea that the garments retain their value and significance when used by others.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse reminds us that worldly possessions, including garments, are temporary and fleeting. They may bring us temporary pleasure and satisfaction, but their true value lies not in their ownership but in how they benefit others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is teaching us that when we use our possessions to benefit others, they become more meaningful and enduring.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of generosity and selflessness. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 highlights the immense reward and blessings that come from using our wealth and possessions for the benefit of others. When we selflessly give to those in need, our actions multiply in their impact and become a source of lasting benefit for ourselves and others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that our possessions are not meant to be hoarded or used solely for our own benefit. Instead, they should be shared and utilized to uplift others. When we lend our garments to others, we not only fulfill their needs but also cultivate a sense of selflessness and generosity within ourselves.

This Hadith also serves as a reflection on the transient nature of worldly possessions. No matter how valuable or cherished they may be, they will eventually fade away or be left behind. However, the impact we leave on others through our acts of kindness and generosity will endure long after our possessions have perished.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of using our possessions to benefit others. Our garments, symbolizing our material possessions, hold more value and lasting significance when they are shared and utilized by others. By doing so, we embody the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize selflessness, generosity, and the eternal rewards that come from using our wealth and possessions for the betterment of others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be selfless and generous Muslims who prioritize the well-being of others over our own material possessions.