Hadith #2513

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الْمَعْرُوفُ أفْضَلُ الكَنْزَيْنِ" which translates to

Benevolence is the better of the two treasures.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance and superiority of acts of kindness and goodness over material wealth and possessions.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (ma'ruf) "معروف" refers to acts of goodness, kindness, and righteousness. It encompasses all actions that are considered morally upright and beneficial to society. It includes acts such as charity, helping others, showing compassion, and fulfilling one's duties towards Allah and His creation. The word (kanzayn) "كنزين" means two treasures or two valuable possessions.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of benevolence and good deeds in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 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 that true righteousness lies in belief in Allah and His teachings, coupled with acts of charity and kindness towards those in need. It emphasizes the importance of giving wealth, even if one has an attachment to it, for the betterment of society. This aligns perfectly with the message of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith, where he emphasizes the superiority of benevolence over material possessions.

Furthermore, 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 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 in the way of Allah, which includes acts of charity and benevolence. Allah promises to multiply the rewards for those who give generously, indicating the immense value and reward associated with acts of kindness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that while material wealth may have its benefits, it is the acts of goodness and benevolence that hold true value in the sight of Allah. The treasures of this world are temporary and fleeting, but the rewards of acts of kindness and righteousness are everlasting.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was a shining example of this principle. His knowledge, wisdom, and acts of benevolence are well-documented in history. He was known for his generosity, compassion, and willingness to help those in need. His actions were guided by his deep understanding of the teachings of Islam and his unwavering commitment to following the path of righteousness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, Muslims are reminded to prioritize acts of goodness and kindness in their lives. It is through these actions that we can truly attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah. Material possessions may come and go, but the impact of our benevolence and good deeds will endure.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Benevolence is the better of the two treasures

emphasizes the superiority of acts of kindness and righteousness over material wealth. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly highlight the importance of charity, compassion, and helping others. Muslims are encouraged to prioritize acts of goodness in their lives, as these hold true value in the sight of Allah and have everlasting rewards. May Allah guide us all to follow the path of benevolence and righteousness.