Hadith #5686

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

بَرَكَةُ المالِ فِي الصَّدَقَةِ۔

This can be translated as,

The blessing of wealth is in charity.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (barakah) "بركة" in Arabic refers to divine blessings and abundance. It is a state of spiritual and material prosperity that is bestowed upon an individual or a community. It is important to note that this blessing is not limited to material wealth alone, but encompasses all aspects of life, including health, knowledge, and happiness.

The word (maal) "مال" refers to wealth or possessions. It includes both tangible assets such as money, property, and possessions, as well as intangible assets such as knowledge, skills, and talents. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of utilizing this wealth in a righteous manner.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the true blessing and increase in wealth comes through (sadaqah) "الصَّدَقَةِ", which means charity or acts of giving. Charity is not merely a financial transaction, but rather a selfless act of kindness and compassion towards others. It includes giving money, food, clothing, or any form of assistance to those in need.

The Quranic teachings support the concept of the blessing of wealth in charity. 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 beautifully illustrates the concept of the blessing and increase in wealth through charity. Just as a single seed yields a bountiful harvest, the act of giving generously from one's wealth leads to manifold blessings and rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a means of multiplying one's wealth and attaining spiritual growth.

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

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 importance of belief in Allah and His Messenger, as well as the act of spending from one's wealth. It highlights that those who believe and give generously will be rewarded abundantly by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The act of charity not only benefits the recipients but also brings immense blessings and rewards to the giver.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the transformative power of charity. When we give selflessly and with a pure intention, we not only alleviate the suffering of others but also purify our own souls and increase our blessings. By sharing our wealth with those in need, we emulate the noble qualities of generosity, compassion, and empathy that are exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt.

Moreover, the act of charity has far-reaching consequences. It helps to address social and economic inequalities, promotes justice, and fosters a sense of unity and solidarity within the Muslim community. It is a means of fulfilling our duty towards our fellow human beings and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the true blessing and increase in wealth lies in charity. By giving generously and selflessly, we not only benefit others but also attain spiritual growth and multiply our blessings. Let us strive to embody the spirit of charity and make it an integral part of our lives as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the means and the intention to give in charity and may He accept our acts of kindness and compassion.