Hadith #4737

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, "Al-sakhāʾu khuluqu al-anbiyāʾ," which translates to

Generosity is a quality of the Prophets.

This impactful Hadith highlights the importance and significance of generosity in the lives of the Prophets and serves as a guiding principle for all Muslims.

The word (سَخَاءُ) "sakhāʾ" in Arabic refers to the act of being generous, selfless, and open-handed. It encompasses the willingness to give, share, and help others without expecting anything in return. This virtue is not limited to material possessions but also includes giving one's time, knowledge, and support to those in need.

To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of generosity and selflessness in numerous verses.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 3:92)

You will never attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love. And whatever you spend - indeed, Allah is Knowing of it

This verse highlights the idea that true righteousness is achieved through selfless giving and sacrificing what is dear to us for the sake of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah states, (Quran 17:26)

And give the relative his right, and [also] the poor and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the rights of others, especially those who are in need, while also cautioning against extravagance and wastefulness.

The Prophets, being the best examples of human beings, embodied the virtue of generosity in their lives. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was known for his immense generosity, both in material and non-material aspects. He would give generously to the poor, support orphans and widows, and help those in need without hesitation.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the gate to the city of knowledge, also exemplified the quality of generosity. His knowledge was not limited to intellectual pursuits but also extended to sharing his wisdom and guidance with others. He would generously impart his knowledge to those who sought it, regardless of their social status or background.

The consequences of practicing generosity are far-reaching. Not only does it benefit the recipient, but it also purifies the heart of the giver. Generosity fosters a sense of empathy, compassion, and gratitude within the individual, strengthening the bond of brotherhood and unity among Muslims.

Moreover, generosity is not limited to material possessions alone. It extends to acts of kindness, forgiveness, and support. By being generous with our time, attention, and forgiveness, we can create a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of generosity as a quality of the Prophets. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate this virtue in their lives, following the examples set by the Prophets and their noble successors. By embodying generosity, we can strive towards righteousness, strengthen our relationships, and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to practice generosity in all aspects of our lives.