Hadith #10688

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

أفْضَلُ النّاسِ أنْفَعُهُمْ لِلنّاسِ

which translates to

The best of people are those who benefit others the most.

This enlightening saying highlights the importance of selflessness and serving others in Islam.

Let us delve into the meaning of some key words in this Hadith. (afdal) "أفْضَلُ" means the best or the most excellent. It refers to individuals who possess outstanding qualities and virtues. (an-nas) "النّاسِ" refers to people or humanity as a whole. (anfa'uhum) "أنْفَعُهُمْ" means those who benefit or bring the most benefit to others. It signifies individuals who actively contribute to the well-being and welfare of others.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran, which serves as the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of helping and benefiting others in numerous verses.

One such verse is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195), where Allah says,

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 encourages Muslims to spend their wealth for the sake of Allah and to engage in acts of goodness. By doing so, they benefit not only themselves but also society as a whole.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah 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 Allah's assistance and guidance in order to be of benefit to others. It emphasizes the need for steadfastness and reliance on Allah in our endeavors to benefit humanity.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the well-being of others and to actively seek ways to benefit society. It encourages us to go beyond our own needs and desires and to selflessly serve others. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also contribute to the betterment of our communities.

This Hadith also highlights the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali possessed a deep understanding of the teachings of Islam. His statement reflects his comprehensive knowledge and his embodiment of the principles of Islam.

The consequences of embodying this Hadith are far-reaching. When Muslims prioritize benefiting others, they create a society that is characterized by compassion, empathy, and unity. By actively seeking ways to benefit others, Muslims can alleviate the suffering of those in need, promote justice and equality, and foster a sense of community and brotherhood.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims should strive to be among the best of people by actively seeking opportunities to benefit others. This can be done through acts of charity, kindness, and service to humanity. By doing so, we not only fulfill our religious obligations but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be among the best of people who benefit others the most. May He guide us to follow the teachings of the Quran and the noble example of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. And may He bless us with the strength and wisdom to make a positive impact on the lives of others.