Hadith #1789

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

بِالجُودِ يُبْتَنَي المَجْدُ وَيُجْتَلَبُ الحَمْدُ

which translates to

Through generosity, distinction is established and praise is acquired.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the immense value and significance of generosity in Islam.

The word (jood) "جُودِ" in this Hadith refers to the act of being generous and giving freely. It encompasses the idea of selflessness, kindness, and benevolence towards others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that through this noble quality, (almajd) "المَجْدُ" or distinction is established. This implies that generosity elevates a person's status and brings them honor and respect in the eyes of others. It sets them apart from the rest and makes them stand out as a shining example of goodness and virtue.

The second part of the Hadith states that through generosity, (alhamd) "الحَمْدُ" or praise is acquired. This means that when one is generous, they are praised and appreciated by those who benefit from their acts of kindness. Generosity not only brings joy and relief to those in need but also earns the admiration and gratitude of others. It creates a positive ripple effect, inspiring others to follow suit and engage in acts of generosity themselves.

The importance of generosity is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261),

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 abundant rewards that come with spending in the way of Allah, which includes acts of generosity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:7), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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.

This verse emphasizes the correlation between belief in Allah and spending in His cause, indicating that generosity is an integral part of faith.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the spirit of generosity in their lives. By being generous, we not only benefit others but also establish our own distinction and acquire praise. Generosity is a means of attaining spiritual growth, purifying our hearts, and strengthening our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

When we give generously, we experience the joy of selflessness and witness the positive impact it has on those around us. Our acts of generosity can inspire others to follow suit, creating a cycle of goodness and compassion in society. Moreover, generosity fosters a sense of gratitude within us, as we recognize the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the opportunity to share those blessings with others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of generosity in Islam. Through acts of selflessness and giving, we not only establish our own distinction but also acquire praise and blessings from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us strive to embody the spirit of generosity in our lives, following the example set by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to be generous and may He accept our acts of kindness and charity.