Hadith #5980

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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) states,

ما أكَلْتَهُ راحَ، وما أطْعَمْتَهُ فاحَ۔

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the profound impact of our actions on others. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (akaltahu) "أكَلْتَهُ" refers to that which you have eaten, consumed, or taken for yourself. It signifies the personal benefits or gains that we acquire in our lives. On the other hand, the word (at'amtahu) "أطْعَمْتَهُ" means that which you have fed or provided to others. It symbolizes the acts of kindness, generosity, and charity that we extend to those around us.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we can 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 charity, comparing it to a seed that multiplies and bears abundant fruits. Just as a seed sown in the ground grows into a plant that yields numerous grains, our acts of generosity and kindness have a ripple effect, spreading goodness and blessings to others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), 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 sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and relying on Him for our needs. When we provide for others, we are essentially seeking sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and relying on His blessings to fulfill the needs of those in our care.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that while the personal benefits we acquire may be temporary and fleeting, the impact of our actions on others is everlasting. When we feed someone, whether it is providing them with food, knowledge, or support, it leaves a lasting impression on their lives. Just as a pleasant fragrance lingers in the air long after the source has disappeared, the positive effects of our acts of kindness and generosity continue to spread and benefit others even after we are gone.

This Hadith serves as a motivation for us to engage in acts of charity, kindness, and compassion towards our fellow Muslims and humanity at large. It encourages us to be mindful of the impact our actions have on others and to strive for goodness in all that we do. By feeding others, we not only fulfill their physical needs but also nourish their souls and bring about positive change in society.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should ask ourselves how we can contribute to the well-being of others. We can start by sharing our knowledge, providing financial assistance to those in need, volunteering our time and skills, and offering emotional support to those going through difficult times. By doing so, we become agents of positive change and play a part in spreading the fragrance of goodness and compassion in the world.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound impact our actions have on others. It urges us to prioritize acts of kindness, generosity, and charity, as they have a lasting and far-reaching effect. Just as what we consume is temporary, what we provide to others spreads like a pleasant fragrance, leaving a positive impact on their lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be compassionate and generous Muslims who strive to make a difference in the lives of others.