Hadith #2419

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, "كُلُّ مَعْرُوف إحْسانٌ۔" which translates to

Every [form of] benevolence is a favour.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

Let us begin by understanding the key words in this Hadith. The word (ma'ruf) "مَعْرُوف" refers to acts of goodness, righteousness, and kindness. It encompasses all forms of benevolence, whether they are small acts of charity, acts of justice, or acts of compassion. The word (ihsan) "إحْسانٌ" means favor, kindness, or excellence. It signifies that every act of goodness is a favor bestowed upon others.

To further comprehend the depth of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83:

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse emphasizes the importance of doing good to others, including parents, relatives, orphans, and the needy. It highlights the significance of speaking good words and performing acts of worship, such as prayer and giving zakah (charity). It is clear that these acts of goodness are considered favors, as they bring benefit and blessings to those who receive them.

Another verse that supports the concept of every act of benevolence being a favor is found in Surah Al-Isra, verse 23:

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating parents with kindness and respect, even in their old age. It teaches us that every act of goodness towards our parents is a favor, as it fulfills our duty towards them and brings blessings upon us.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Quranic verses, we can understand that every act of ma'ruf (benevolence) is a favor because it brings about positive consequences. When we engage in acts of goodness, we not only benefit others but also purify our souls, strengthen our faith, and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

For example, when we give charity to the needy, it not only helps them meet their basic needs but also brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and increases our compassion for others. Similarly, when we speak kind words to someone, it not only uplifts their spirits but also creates a positive atmosphere and strengthens our relationships.

Furthermore, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that acts of benevolence should be performed sincerely, seeking only the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encourages us to do good deeds without expecting anything in return, as true acts of kindness are selfless and motivated solely by the desire to please our Creator.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that every act of ma'ruf (benevolence) is a favor, as it brings benefit and blessings to others. It reminds us of the importance of performing acts of goodness sincerely, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone. Let us strive to embody this teaching in our daily lives, spreading kindness, compassion, and justice to all those around us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) enable us to be a source of goodness and favor for others.