Hadith #9200

Praise be to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the Most High, and blessings be upon His Messenger Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure family, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

In times of [their] altruism, the excellence of the noble-minded people become manifest.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its deeper implications in light of the Quran.

The word (i'thar) "إيثار" in Arabic refers to selflessness, altruism, and preferring others over oneself. It is the act of giving priority to the needs and well-being of others, even if it means sacrificing one's own desires and interests. This act of selflessness is a reflection of the noble character and high moral standards that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) expects from His servants.

The term (jawahir) "جواهر" means gems or precious jewels. In this context, it symbolizes the hidden virtues, qualities, and potentials that lie within the noble-minded individuals. These individuals possess exceptional moral values, such as generosity, kindness, compassion, and empathy. Their true excellence and inner beauty become apparent when they practice selflessness and prioritize the needs of others.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of selflessness and altruism. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9):

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the exemplary behavior of the Ansar (the residents of Madinah) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the emigrants from Makkah). They preferred the needs of the emigrants over their own, even though they themselves were in need. This selflessness and generosity were highly praised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and serve as a model for all Muslims to follow.

Another verse that supports the concept of altruism is found in Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9):

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse describes the actions of the righteous believers who feed the needy, orphans, and captives, solely seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They do not expect any reward or gratitude from those they help. Their selflessness and sincerity in their acts of charity demonstrate their noble character and their true excellence as believers.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us that true excellence and the manifestation of noble qualities occur when individuals practice selflessness and prioritize the needs of others. When we put the well-being and happiness of others before our own desires, we unlock the hidden gems within ourselves and become shining examples of righteousness and morality.

By practicing altruism, we not only benefit others but also purify our own souls and draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through selflessness that we emulate the character of the noble-minded individuals mentioned in the Hadith and fulfill the purpose of our creation as Muslims.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice selflessness and manifest the excellence of the noble-minded people. May He purify our hearts and make us among those who prioritize the needs of others, seeking His pleasure alone. Ameen.