Hadith #1296

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the noble character of a true believer. It states,

When a believer is asked [for help], he helps, and when he asks [others for help], he is lenient [and does not overburden them].

This Hadith highlights the qualities of generosity, selflessness, and consideration that should be exhibited by a believer.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (believer) "مُؤْمِنُ" refers to a person who has complete faith in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and adheres to the teachings of Islam. The word (helps) "أسْعَفَ" means to respond promptly and generously to the request for assistance. On the other hand, the word (asks) "سَألَ" implies seeking help or support from others. The term (lenient) "خَفَّفَ" signifies being considerate and not burdening others excessively.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 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 importance of helping others and spending in the way of Allah, as it leads to abundant rewards and blessings.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

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 support in all our endeavors. It reminds us to be humble and reliant on Allah's guidance and assistance.

Reflecting on the exegesis of this Hadith, we can understand the impactful message it conveys. A true believer is characterized by their willingness to help others when they are in need. They do not hesitate to extend a helping hand, showing generosity and compassion. This act of selflessness is not limited to financial assistance but extends to any form of support that may be required.

Moreover, a believer also understands the importance of being considerate when seeking help from others. They do not burden others with excessive demands or expectations. Instead, they approach others with humility and understanding, recognizing that everyone has their own limitations and responsibilities.

By embodying the teachings of this Hadith, Muslims can cultivate a society built on compassion, empathy, and mutual support. It encourages us to be proactive in offering assistance to those in need, and at the same time, to be considerate when seeking help ourselves. This balanced approach fosters harmonious relationships and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the noble qualities that a true believer should possess. It encourages us to be generous and selfless in helping others, while also being considerate and understanding when seeking assistance. By embodying these qualities, we can strive to create a society that is characterized by compassion, empathy, and mutual support. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to live by the teachings of this Hadith and to be a source of goodness for others.