Hadith #2441

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

مَنْ مَنَعَ الإحْسانَ سُلِبَ الإمْكانَ۔

This can be translated as,

One who withholds favours is stripped of [his] ability.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of practicing kindness and benevolence towards others.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. The word (ihsan) "إحْسانَ" refers to acts of goodness, excellence, and kindness. It encompasses going above and beyond in one's actions, treating others with utmost respect, and fulfilling their rights. The word (suliba) "سُلِبَ" means to be deprived or stripped of something. And the word (imkan) "إمْكانَ" refers to ability or capability.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 195:

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of spending in the way of Allah and doing good deeds. It encourages Muslims to be generous and kind, reminding us that Allah loves those who perform acts of goodness. By withholding favors and not practicing ihsan, one is depriving themselves of the opportunity to earn the love and blessings of Allah.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80:

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 Allah's help and sustenance in all our endeavors. By practicing ihsan and being kind to others, we are more likely to receive Allah's blessings and support in our lives.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. By stating that one who withholds favors is stripped of their ability, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us of the interconnectedness of our actions and their consequences. When we choose to withhold acts of kindness and generosity, we not only deprive others of our help but also limit our own potential and blessings.

Practicing ihsan and being kind to others has numerous benefits. It strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community, fosters a culture of compassion and empathy, and brings about a sense of fulfillment and contentment in our hearts. Moreover, by engaging in acts of goodness, we are following in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), who exemplified the highest standards of character and kindness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to practice ihsan and to be generous and kind towards others. By doing so, we not only benefit those around us but also enhance our own abilities and earn the love and blessings of Allah. Let us strive to embody the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) by spreading kindness and goodness in all aspects of our lives. May Allah guide us on the path of righteousness and enable us to be among the doers of good.