Hadith #216

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 noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

He who gives with his short hand is given by a long hand.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries a deep spiritual and moral lesson for all Muslims.

Let us first analyze the key words in this Hadith. The word (yu'ti) "يُعْطِ" means to give or bestow, while (bil-yadil qasirah) "بِالْيَدِ الْقَصِيرَةِ" refers to the short hand. On the other hand, (bil-yadit-tawilah) "بِالْيَدِ الطَّوِيلَةِ" refers to the long hand. This metaphorical language is used to emphasize the concept of giving and receiving.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 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 highlights the principle of giving generously in the path of Allah. When we give with sincerity and a pure heart, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) multiplies our reward manifold. Just as a single seed produces multiple grains, our act of giving is rewarded abundantly by Allah.

Another verse that complements the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 18:

Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan - it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.

This verse emphasizes the concept of lending to Allah by giving in His cause. When we give with a sincere intention and without expecting anything in return, we are essentially lending to Allah. And just as a lender expects a return on their loan, Allah promises to multiply our reward and grant us a noble reward.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that when we give with our short hand, meaning when we give a small amount or what may seem insignificant, Allah rewards us with His long hand, meaning He bestows upon us abundant blessings and provisions. It is a reminder that no act of giving, no matter how small, goes unnoticed by Allah.

This Hadith encourages us to be generous and selfless in our giving. It reminds us that even the smallest acts of charity and kindness have the potential to bring immense blessings and rewards. It teaches us to have faith in Allah's promise of multiplication and to trust in His infinite wisdom and generosity.

Furthermore, this Hadith also serves as a reminder of the character and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep understanding of the Quran and his unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness. His words carry immense wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect or background.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of giving with a sincere heart, regardless of the size or value of our contribution. It reminds us that Allah's blessings and rewards are not limited by our material possessions, but rather by the purity of our intentions and the sincerity of our actions. May we all strive to emulate the noble example set by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and may Allah bless us with the ability to give generously and selflessly in His cause.