Hadith #5691

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 righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Charity given in secret expiates wrongdoings and charity given openly is a means of increasing wealth.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom contained in this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the important words in this Hadith. The word (sadaqah) "صَدَقَةُ" refers to charity, an act of giving to those in need. (sirr) "السِّرِّ" means secret or hidden, indicating that the act of charity is done discreetly without seeking any recognition or praise. On the other hand, (al-'alaniyah) "العَلانِيَةِ" means openly or publicly, suggesting that the act of charity is performed in a visible manner, where others can witness it.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:271),

If you disclose your charitable expenditures, they are good; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, it is better for you. And Allah is fully aware of what you do.

This verse emphasizes the virtue of giving charity secretly, as it is more sincere and devoid of any desire for worldly recognition.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:262), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah and then do not follow up what they have spent with reminders [of it] or [other] injury will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.

This verse highlights the importance of giving charity without expecting anything in return, whether it be praise or gratitude from others.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that charity given openly is a means of increasing wealth. This can be understood in the context of another Quranic verse, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7),

Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.

By openly giving charity, one not only benefits the recipient but also inspires others to follow suit, leading to a collective increase in acts of charity and the overall well-being of society.

Moreover, the act of giving openly can also be a means of purifying one's wealth. In Surah Al-Imran (3:92), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you give (freely) of that which you love; and whatever you give, Allah knows it well.

When we openly give from our wealth, we demonstrate our detachment from worldly possessions and our willingness to share with those in need. This act of selflessness purifies our hearts and strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of both secret and open charity. Giving in secret expiates wrongdoings, as it reflects sincerity and a desire to please Allah alone. On the other hand, giving openly is a means of increasing wealth, not only in material terms but also in terms of spiritual rewards and the betterment of society. By following the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can strive to embody the virtues of charity and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with the ability to give generously and sincerely for His sake.