Hadith #10981

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "التَّواضُعُ زَكاةُ الشَّرَفِ" which translates to

Humility is the alms-tax of honour.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of humility in maintaining and preserving one's honor and dignity.

The word (tawāḍuʿ) "تَوَاضُع" refers to humility, modesty, and humbleness. It is the act of recognizing and acknowledging one's own limitations and weaknesses, while also showing respect and reverence towards others. Humility is a fundamental virtue in Islam, as it cultivates a sense of selflessness, gratitude, and submission to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes humility as the (zakātu al-sharaf) "زَكَاةُ الشَّرَفِ", which can be translated as the "alms-tax of honor." This metaphorical expression signifies that humility is not only a virtue but also a means of purifying and elevating one's honor and status in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the society.

To further understand the significance of humility in Islam, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true honor and nobility are not based on one's lineage, wealth, or social status, but rather on their righteousness and piety. The most honorable and noble individuals are those who possess humility and righteousness in their hearts and actions. By humbling ourselves before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and recognizing our own weaknesses, we can attain true honor and dignity in the sight of our Creator.

Another verse that highlights the importance of humility is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse reminds us that those who do not seek arrogance or superiority in this worldly life, but instead strive for righteousness and humility, will be rewarded with a place in the eternal abode of Paradise. By practicing humility, we detach ourselves from the materialistic desires and worldly attachments that can corrupt our hearts and souls.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that humility is not a sign of weakness, but rather a manifestation of inner strength and wisdom. It is through humility that we can build strong and harmonious relationships with others, as it fosters empathy, compassion, and understanding. By humbling ourselves before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and recognizing our own shortcomings, we become more receptive to His guidance and mercy.

Furthermore, humility serves as a protection against arrogance, pride, and self-centeredness. It reminds us that all blessings and achievements come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and that we should be grateful for His favors. By acknowledging our dependence on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and recognizing our own limitations, we guard ourselves against the destructive vices of arrogance and self-importance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that humility is the alms-tax of honor. It is through humility that we purify and elevate our honor in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and society. By practicing humility, we strive for righteousness, detach ourselves from worldly desires, and build strong and harmonious relationships with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to cultivate humility in our hearts and actions.