Hadith #1456

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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) highlights the consequences of withholding one's hand out of fear of poverty. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith, exploring its underlying meanings and implications in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (withholds) "قَبَضَ", (his hand) "يَدَهُ", (fear) "مَخَافَةَ", and (poverty) "الفَقْرِ". The word "قَبَضَ" implies holding back or restraining oneself from giving. "يَدَهُ" refers to one's hand, which symbolizes generosity and giving. "مَخَافَةَ" denotes fear or apprehension, while "الفَقْرِ" refers to poverty or destitution.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of generosity and the importance of giving in numerous verses. For instance, 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 highlights the immense rewards and blessings that come with giving in the way of Allah. It illustrates that when we withhold our wealth out of fear of poverty, we are depriving ourselves of the abundant blessings that Allah has promised to bestow upon the generous.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on Allah's sustenance and seeking His assistance in all matters, including financial stability. When we withhold our hand out of fear of poverty, we are essentially doubting Allah's ability to provide for us and failing to trust in His sustaining power.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to overcome their fear and trust in Allah's provisions. By withholding our hand, we are not only depriving ourselves of the blessings of giving but also hastening the very poverty we fear. This is because when we refuse to give, we are closing the doors of abundance that Allah has promised to open for the generous.

Moreover, this Hadith highlights the importance of having a positive mindset and a strong belief in Allah's ability to provide. When we give with sincerity and trust in Allah's promise, we are not only fulfilling our duty as Muslims but also inviting His blessings into our lives. By contrast, when we withhold out of fear, we are succumbing to a scarcity mindset that limits our potential and restricts the flow of blessings.

Let us reflect on the consequences of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking words. When we withhold our hand out of fear of poverty, we are not only depriving ourselves of the blessings of giving but also hindering the circulation of wealth within society. By embracing a mindset of abundance and generosity, we can create a cycle of giving and receiving that benefits not only ourselves but also those in need.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to overcome their fear of poverty and embrace a mindset of abundance and generosity. By withholding our hand, we not only deprive ourselves of the blessings of giving but also hasten the very poverty we fear. Let us strive to trust in Allah's provisions, give generously, and create a society that thrives on the principles of compassion and selflessness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the strength to overcome our fears and be generous in our actions.