Hadith #10618

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "إذا رُزِقْتَ فَأوْسِعْ۔" This can be translated as,

When you are blessed with sustenance, then give generously.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (ruzikt) "رُزِقْتَ" in this Hadith refers to being granted sustenance or provisions by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses all forms of blessings, whether material or spiritual. It reminds us that everything we have is a gift from Allah, and we should be grateful for His blessings.

The word (awsia) "أوْسِعْ" means to expand or enlarge. In the context of this Hadith, it signifies the act of giving generously and not restricting oneself when it comes to sharing the blessings bestowed upon us. It encourages us to be open-hearted and open-handed in our acts of charity and kindness towards others.

This Hadith aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving. 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 ayah highlights the concept of

spending in the way of Allah,

which includes acts of charity and helping those in need. Just as a seed multiplies and yields abundant crops, our acts of generosity are rewarded manifold by Allah. By giving generously, we not only benefit others but also increase our own blessings and rewards.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking sustenance from Allah and recognizing that all provisions ultimately come from Him. It reminds us that our sustenance is not solely dependent on our efforts but is ultimately in the hands of Allah. Therefore, when we are blessed with provisions, it is incumbent upon us to give generously, acknowledging that we are merely trustees of these blessings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of their responsibilities towards others. It encourages us to adopt a selfless and generous mindset, recognizing that our wealth and blessings are meant to be shared with those less fortunate.

By giving generously, we not only alleviate the suffering of others but also purify our own souls and strengthen our relationship with Allah. It is through acts of charity and kindness that we emulate the noble qualities of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the Ahl al-Bayt, and the righteous companions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of giving generously when we are blessed with sustenance. It reminds us to be grateful to Allah for His blessings and to share our wealth and resources with those in need. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also increase our own blessings and rewards. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice this noble teaching in our lives.