Hadith #2421

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Increased rendering of benevolent works prolongs life and spreads renown.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of engaging in acts of kindness and righteousness, as they not only have a positive impact on our own lives but also contribute to the betterment of society.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (isti'naa) "اصْطِناعِ" refers to the act of actively engaging in or performing benevolent works. It implies going beyond mere acknowledgement or intention and emphasizes the importance of taking practical steps to bring about positive change. The word (ma'ruf) "مَعْرُوفِ" refers to acts of goodness, righteousness, and kindness that are recognized and accepted by society as virtuous.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of spending in the way of Allah and engaging in acts of goodness. It emphasizes that by doing so, we not only benefit ourselves but also earn the pleasure of Allah. Similarly, in Surah Al-Hajj (22:77), Allah says,

O you who have believed, bow and prostrate and worship your Lord and do good - that you may succeed.

These verses from the Quran emphasize the significance of engaging in acts of goodness and righteousness. They highlight that performing benevolent works is not only a means of earning rewards in the hereafter but also a path to success in this life.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. By stating that increased rendering of benevolent works prolongs life, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the positive impact of acts of kindness on our physical and spiritual well-being. Engaging in acts of goodness not only brings joy and contentment to our hearts but also contributes to a longer and healthier life.

Furthermore, the Hadith states that such acts also spread renown. This implies that when we consistently engage in acts of kindness and righteousness, our reputation and influence grow. Others are inspired by our actions and are motivated to follow in our footsteps, thus creating a ripple effect of goodness in society.

For example, when we help the less fortunate, our actions not only bring relief to those in need but also inspire others to do the same. This leads to the establishment of a virtuous cycle where acts of kindness become a norm in society, ultimately leading to a more compassionate and harmonious community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of actively engaging in acts of kindness and righteousness. By doing so, we not only benefit ourselves but also contribute to the betterment of society. The Quranic verses mentioned further reinforce this message, highlighting the significance of performing benevolent works to earn the pleasure of Allah and attain success in this life and the hereafter. Let us strive to increase our rendering of benevolent works, prolong our lives, and spread renown through our actions as Muslims.