Hadith #3034

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ لَمْ يَحْتَمِلْ مَؤُنَةَ النّاسِ فَقَدْ أهَّلَ قُدْرَتَهُ لاِنْتِقالِها۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of shouldering the responsibility of providing for the needs of others. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (mu'una) "مَؤُنَةَ" in this Hadith refers to the burdens or needs of the people. It encompasses their physical, emotional, and material requirements. It includes providing sustenance, support, and assistance to those who are in need. By bearing the burden of providing for others, one fulfills their duty as a responsible member of society.

The phrase (qudratahu) "قُدْرَتَهُ" in the Hadith refers to one's power, ability, or capacity. It signifies the resources, skills, and capabilities that Allah has bestowed upon an individual. It is a divine gift that should be utilized for the betterment of society.

This Hadith reminds us that if someone fails to bear the burden of providing for the people, they have wasted their power and abilities. They have neglected their duty to utilize their resources for the benefit of others. Instead, they have prepared their power for its transference, implying that their abilities will be transferred to someone else who is willing to fulfill this responsibility.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of providing for the needs of others. Allah says in Surah Al-Isra (17:80),

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's sustenance and strength to fulfill our responsibilities towards others.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7), Allah says,

Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.

This verse emphasizes the duty of believers to spend from their wealth for the betterment of society. By doing so, they fulfill their role as successors on earth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively engage in acts of charity, support, and assistance towards those in need. It encourages us to utilize our abilities and resources to alleviate the burdens of others. By doing so, we not only fulfill our responsibilities but also prepare ourselves for the transference of blessings and rewards from Allah.

When we bear the burden of providing for others, we develop qualities such as compassion, empathy, and selflessness. We become more aware of the struggles and challenges faced by our fellow human beings. This awareness motivates us to take action and make a positive difference in their lives.

Furthermore, by shouldering the responsibility of providing for others, we contribute to the establishment of a just and equitable society. We create an environment where everyone's needs are met, and no one is left behind. This fosters a sense of unity, cooperation, and mutual support among Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of our duty to bear the burden of providing for the needs of others. It urges us to utilize our power and abilities for the betterment of society. By doing so, we fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims and prepare ourselves for the transference of blessings and rewards from Allah. May Allah guide us all to be compassionate and generous towards our fellow human beings.