Hadith #5679

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الصَّدَقَةُ أعْظَمُ الرِّبْحَيْنِ" which translates to

Charity is the greater of the two gains.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the immense value and reward of giving in the path of Allah.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (sadaqah) "الصَّدَقَةُ" refers to acts of voluntary giving, whether it be in the form of wealth, time, or effort, with the intention of seeking the pleasure of Allah. It encompasses various acts such as giving to the poor, supporting charitable causes, and helping those in need.

The word (a'zamu) "أعْظَمُ" means greater or more significant. It emphasizes the superiority and excellence of charity over other forms of gain or profit. The word (ribhayn) "الرِّبْحَيْنِ" refers to two gains or profits, indicating that charity surpasses all other forms of worldly gains.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance and rewards of charity. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:245)

Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over? And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance, and to Him you will be returned.

This verse highlights the concept of giving to Allah, knowing that He will multiply the reward manifold.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (Quran 57:11)

Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him and he will have a noble reward?

Here, Allah emphasizes the noble reward that awaits those who give generously in His cause.

The exegesis of this Hadith reveals profound insights into the nature of charity and its impact on the individual and society. Charity is not merely a financial transaction; it is an act of worship that purifies the soul and strengthens the bond between the giver and Allah. By giving selflessly, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's provision and our willingness to share His blessings with others.

Charity has numerous benefits, both in this world and the Hereafter. It brings relief to the needy, fosters compassion and empathy within society, and promotes social justice. Moreover, it serves as a means of purification for the giver, purging greed and materialism from the heart. It is a means of seeking closeness to Allah and attaining His pleasure.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that the true measure of success lies not in accumulating wealth and possessions, but in using our resources to benefit others. It encourages us to prioritize acts of charity and selflessness, recognizing that the rewards of the Hereafter far surpass any worldly gains.

As Muslims, we are called upon to embody the spirit of charity in our daily lives. We should strive to give generously, whether it be through financial contributions, volunteering our time and skills, or offering support and assistance to those in need. By doing so, we not only fulfill our obligations as believers but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the immense rewards and virtues of charity. It urges us to prioritize acts of giving and selflessness, recognizing that true gain lies in the pleasure of Allah and the betterment of humanity. May we all strive to embody the spirit of charity and experience the blessings it brings in this world and the Hereafter.