Hadith #5001

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of three actions that lead to eminence and honor. The first action mentioned is (righteous action) "فِعْلُ المَعْرُوفِ", which refers to performing acts of goodness and righteousness. This includes fulfilling our obligations towards Allah and His creation, such as praying, giving charity, being kind to others, and upholding justice.

The second action mentioned is (aiding the aggrieved) "إغاثَةُ المَلْهُوفِ", which highlights the significance of helping those who are in distress or facing hardship. It encompasses providing assistance, support, and comfort to those who are oppressed, vulnerable, or suffering. This can be done through various means, such as offering financial aid, emotional support, or advocating for their rights.

The third action mentioned is (inviting guests [to one's home]) "إقْراءُ الضُّيُوفِ", which emphasizes the virtue of hospitality and generosity. It encourages Muslims to open their homes and hearts to others, welcoming guests and treating them with kindness and respect. By inviting guests and sharing what we have, we not only fulfill a social obligation but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and unity within the Muslim community.

To understand the significance of these actions and their role in attaining eminence, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177):

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.

This verse highlights the importance of righteous actions and giving to those in need. It emphasizes that true righteousness is not merely limited to outward rituals or appearances, but it encompasses sincere belief in Allah and His guidance, as well as practical acts of kindness and charity towards others. By giving to the needy and aiding the aggrieved, we demonstrate our faith and fulfill our duty as Muslims.

Furthermore, the Quran also emphasizes the virtue of hospitality. In Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:15-17), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And in their wealth is a recognized right for the needy and the destitute. And those who believe in the Day of Recompense and give what they give while their hearts are fearful because they will be returning to their Lord. It is those who hasten to good deeds, and they outstrip [others] therein.

These verses highlight that believers are not only obligated to give to the needy but should do so willingly and with a sense of urgency. They should be mindful of the Day of Recompense and the accountability they will face before Allah. By inviting guests and sharing our provisions, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's provision and our willingness to give for His sake.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively engage in righteous actions, aid those in need, and practice hospitality. These actions not only bring benefit to others but also elevate our own status and character. By performing righteous deeds, we strengthen our relationship with Allah and fulfill our purpose as His servants. By aiding the aggrieved, we alleviate their suffering and contribute to a more just and compassionate society. And by inviting guests, we foster unity, love, and generosity within the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of righteous action, aiding the aggrieved, and inviting guests as means of attaining eminence and honor. These actions are deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran and serve as a comprehensive guide for Muslims to live a life of piety, compassion, and generosity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these virtues and strive for excellence in all aspects of our lives.