Hadith #4355

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he emphasizes the importance of not abandoning one's close relatives, especially when they are in a state of poverty. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to not withhold their support and assistance from their relatives, as it is a duty upon them to help those in need.

Let us delve into the key words and phrases used in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (qarabah) "قَرابَةِ" refers to one's near relatives, including immediate family members and extended family. It encompasses the bonds of kinship and blood ties. The word (khasasah) "خَصاصَةَ" refers to the special relationship and connection that exists between family members. It highlights the unique responsibility and obligation one has towards their relatives.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to not abandon their relatives, particularly when they are in a state of poverty. Poverty here refers to a condition of financial need and deprivation. It is a state where individuals lack the basic necessities of life. The Imam emphasizes that Muslims should not withhold their support and assistance from their relatives, even if it is a small amount. He states that this support will not increase if one withholds it, nor will it decrease if one spends it.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining ties of kinship and assisting those in need. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:26)

And give to the relative his right, and [also] to the poor and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully.

This verse highlights the obligation of giving the rights of relatives, which includes providing support and assistance to them.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah states, (Quran 2:177)

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 emphasizes that true righteousness lies in giving wealth, despite one's attachment to it, to relatives and those in need.

From these Quranic verses, we can understand that maintaining ties of kinship and assisting relatives in need are integral parts of Islamic teachings. It is a means of attaining righteousness and fulfilling our obligations as Muslims. By helping our relatives, we not only fulfill our duty towards them but also strengthen the bonds of love and unity within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of their responsibility towards their relatives, especially when they are in need. It teaches us that our assistance should not be contingent upon the amount we can give, but rather on the intention and sincerity behind our actions. Even a small act of kindness can have a profound impact on the lives of our relatives.

Furthermore, this Hadith encourages Muslims to adopt a selfless and generous attitude towards their relatives. It reminds us that our wealth and possessions are temporary and that true wealth lies in the relationships we cultivate and the good deeds we perform. By helping our relatives, we not only alleviate their suffering but also purify our own souls and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims of the importance of maintaining ties of kinship and assisting our relatives in need. It highlights the duty we have towards our family members and emphasizes the significance of selflessness and generosity in our actions. By following the teachings of this Hadith and the guidance of the Quran, we can strive to be compassionate and caring individuals, fulfilling our obligations as Muslims and strengthening the bonds of love and unity within our community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all in fulfilling our responsibilities towards our relatives and grant us the ability to be a source of support and assistance to those in need.