Hadith #4535

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic phrase in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) that we will be exploring is

والزَّكاةَ تَسَبُّباً (تَسْبيباً) للرِّزقِ۔

This phrase can be translated as

And charity [was prescribed as] a means of sustenance.

The word (zakat) "زَّكَاةَ" refers to the obligatory charity that Muslims are required to give from their wealth. It is a means of purifying and increasing one's wealth, as well as fulfilling the rights of the less fortunate in society. The word (tasabbuban) "تَسَبُّباً" is derived from the root (sababa) "سَبَبَ", which means to cause or bring about. It implies that giving charity has the power to bring about sustenance and increase in one's provisions.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says 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 beautifully illustrates the concept of charity as a means of sustenance. Just as a single seed can produce a bountiful harvest, the act of giving charity has the potential to multiply one's provisions manifold. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the One who bestows increase and blessings upon those who give in His cause.

Furthermore, in Surah At-Tawbah, verse 103, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [Allah's blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the purification aspect of charity, as it purifies the hearts and souls of the believers. Additionally, it highlights that giving charity leads to an increase in blessings and provisions. The act of giving charity not only benefits the recipient but also brings about spiritual and material growth for the giver.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith is reminding us of the profound wisdom behind the obligation of giving charity. It is not merely a duty to fulfill, but a means through which Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bestows His blessings upon us. By giving in the way of Allah, we open the doors for abundance and sustenance in our lives.

This Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to be generous and charitable, knowing that their acts of kindness and giving will not only benefit those in need but also bring about blessings and increase in their own lives. It encourages us to have trust in Allah's promise that He will provide for us when we give in His cause.

Moreover, this Hadith teaches us about the mindset of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his deep understanding of the Quranic teachings. His knowledge and wisdom were unparalleled, and he exemplified the true essence of Islam through his actions and teachings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of charity as a means of sustenance. It reminds us that giving in the way of Allah not only benefits the recipients but also brings about blessings and increase in our own lives. By fulfilling our obligation of giving zakat and engaging in acts of charity, we purify our wealth, strengthen our faith, and open the doors for abundant provision from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May we all strive to embody the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and be generous and charitable Muslims.