Hadith #1531

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of having a cheerful and pleasant demeanor while giving to others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

By cheerfulness and keeping a smiling face, the act of giving becomes virtuous.

This Hadith highlights the significance of not only performing acts of charity but also doing so with a positive attitude and a joyful countenance.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and their implications. The word (bil-bishr) "بِالبِشْرِ" refers to cheerfulness, happiness, or a joyful disposition. It signifies the state of being content and spreading positivity through one's actions and expressions. The word (basṭi al-wajh) "بَسْطِ الوَجْهِ" translates to keeping a smiling face or having a pleasant countenance. It signifies the act of maintaining a friendly and welcoming demeanor.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs us 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 emphasizes the importance of giving in the way of Allah and highlights the immense rewards that await those who engage in acts of charity.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 272, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Not upon you, [O Muhammad], is [responsibility for] their guidance, but Allah guides whom He wills. And whatever good you [believers] spend is for yourselves, and you do not spend except seeking the countenance of Allah. And whatever you spend of good - it will be fully repaid to you, and you will not be wronged.

This verse highlights the intention behind giving and reminds us that our acts of charity should be solely for the sake of seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

When we combine the teachings of the Quran with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that the act of giving is not limited to the physical act of donating wealth or possessions. It encompasses the entire process, including the attitude and disposition with which we give. By maintaining a cheerful and pleasant demeanor while giving, we enhance the virtue and reward of our charitable acts.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to be mindful of our facial expressions and to approach acts of giving with a positive attitude. When we give with a smile, we not only uplift the spirits of those receiving our charity but also inspire others to follow suit. Our cheerful disposition can serve as a source of motivation for others to engage in acts of kindness and generosity.

Moreover, a smiling face and a joyful countenance can have a profound impact on the recipients of our charity. It can bring comfort, solace, and hope to those in need. When we give with a cheerful heart, we create an atmosphere of love and compassion, fostering a sense of community and unity among Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the act of giving becomes virtuous when accompanied by cheerfulness and a smiling face. By maintaining a positive attitude and a joyful countenance, we enhance the rewards of our charitable acts and inspire others to follow in our footsteps. Let us strive to embody the teachings of this Hadith and spread happiness and kindness through our acts of charity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with the ability to give generously and with a cheerful heart.