Hadith #2280

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, "أعْطِ تَسْتَطِعْ(تَصْطَنِعْ)۔" which translates to

Give and you shall become capable (or be chosen).

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep wisdom and guidance for Muslims.

Let us first delve into the key words of this Hadith. The word (give) "أعْطِ" is derived from the Arabic root "ع-ط-ي" which signifies giving, bestowing, or granting. It encompasses both material and non-material acts of giving, such as giving charity, knowledge, love, or forgiveness. The word (become capable) "تَسْتَطِعْ" is derived from the root "س-ط-ع" which denotes the ability, capacity, or power to do something. It implies that by giving, one acquires the capability to achieve greatness or excellence. Another possible translation of "تَسْتَطِعْ" is "تَصْطَنِعْ" which means to be chosen or selected. Thus, this Hadith can also be understood as

Give and you shall be chosen.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261),

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the concept of giving and its abundant rewards. When we give in the way of Allah, whether it be through charity, kindness, or any act of goodness, Allah multiplies the rewards manifold. By giving, we not only benefit others but also increase our own blessings and capabilities.

Furthermore, the Quran encourages generosity and selflessness in multiple verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.

This verse highlights that true righteousness lies in giving, especially to those in need. It is not merely about performing rituals, but about embodying the spirit of generosity and compassion.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the transformative power of giving. When we give, whether it is our time, wealth, or knowledge, we not only benefit others but also enhance our own abilities and qualities. By giving, we develop a sense of empathy, humility, and gratitude. We become more aware of the needs of others and strive to make a positive impact in their lives. This act of selflessness and generosity opens doors of opportunity and blessings for us.

Moreover, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also implies that by giving, we are chosen by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for greater responsibilities and rewards. When we selflessly give, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's provision and His ability to bless us abundantly. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7),

Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.

This verse highlights that those who believe and spend in the way of Allah are chosen for great rewards and blessings.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith

Give and you shall become capable (or be chosen)

serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to embrace the virtue of giving. By giving selflessly, we not only benefit others but also enhance our own capabilities and qualities. Through acts of generosity, we develop empathy, humility, and gratitude, and open doors of opportunity and blessings. Moreover, by giving, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's provision and are chosen for greater rewards and responsibilities. Let us strive to embody the spirit of giving and experience the transformative power it holds in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to give and be chosen.