Hadith #7850

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "كَمَا تُعِينُ تُعَانُ۔" This can be translated as,

Just as you assist [others], you are assisted.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the reciprocal nature of helping others and receiving help in return.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (tu'īnu) "تُعِينُ" is derived from the root word (ʿawn) "عَوْن", which means to aid, support, or assist someone. It signifies the act of providing assistance to others in their time of need. The word (tuʿānu) "تُعَانُ" is derived from the root word (ʿānā) "عَانَى", which means to be helped or assisted. It indicates that when we extend our support to others, we, in turn, receive assistance when we are in need.

The Quranic verses beautifully reinforce the concept of reciprocal assistance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195),

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse encourages Muslims to spend in the cause of Allah and help others. By doing so, we not only benefit those in need but also earn the love and pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 seeking assistance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our endeavors. When we assist others sincerely, we can rely on Allah's support and guidance in our own affairs.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the reciprocal nature of assistance. When we extend a helping hand to others, we create a positive ripple effect in society. Our acts of kindness and support not only alleviate the burdens of those in need but also inspire others to do the same. This creates a cycle of assistance where everyone benefits and receives help when they require it.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, encourages Muslims to be proactive in assisting others. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as believers but also cultivate a sense of empathy, compassion, and unity within the community. When we assist others selflessly, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, fostering a harmonious society.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences. When we extend a helping hand to others, we are sowing the seeds of goodwill and kindness. These seeds will eventually bear fruit, and we will receive assistance when we are in need. This assistance may come from unexpected sources, and it may manifest in various forms, such as emotional support, guidance, or material help.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to be proactive in assisting others, recognizing that our actions have a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. Let us remember the words of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and embody the spirit of mutual support and cooperation. By doing so, we not only fulfill our religious obligations but also contribute to the betterment of humanity.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to assist others sincerely and receive assistance when we are in need. May He bless us with the understanding and wisdom to embody the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Ameen.