Hadith #8437

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

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

يُسْتَدَلُّ عَلى فَضْلِكَ بِعَمَلِكَ، وَعَلى كَرَمِكَ بِبَذْلِكَ۔

This can be translated as,

Your virtue is proven by your action and your munificence by your open-handedness.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. (fadlik) "فَضْلِكَ" refers to one's virtue or excellence, while (amalik) "عَمَلِكَ" signifies one's actions or deeds. Similarly, (karamik) "كَرَمِكَ" denotes one's generosity or munificence, and (bazlik) "بَذْلِكَ" means one's open-handedness or willingness to give.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good deeds as a measure of virtue. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177, Allah says,

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 the significance of virtuous actions, particularly in the context of charity and generosity.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of generosity and open-handedness. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261, Allah says,

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 illustrates the abundant rewards that await those who are generous and selfless in their giving.

Based on these Quranic verses and the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can understand that true virtue is not merely a matter of words or intentions, but rather it is proven through our actions. Our deeds are a reflection of our inner character and values. Similarly, our generosity and willingness to give are indicators of our true munificence.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that our virtues and generosity are not to be measured by mere claims or empty promises. Instead, they are to be demonstrated through our actions and our willingness to give selflessly.

By practicing virtuous deeds and being open-handed in our generosity, we not only fulfill our obligations as Muslims but also inspire others to follow suit. Our actions have the power to motivate positive change in society and create a ripple effect of goodness.

Moreover, the consequences of embodying this Hadith are far-reaching. When we prioritize virtuous actions and open-handedness, we cultivate a sense of empathy and compassion within ourselves. We become more aware of the needs of others and are motivated to alleviate their suffering. This fosters a sense of unity and solidarity among Muslims, as we come together to support and uplift one another.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to embody virtue through their actions and demonstrate munificence through their open-handedness. By aligning our deeds with our beliefs, we not only strengthen our own character but also contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice virtuous actions and be generous in our giving.