Hadith #2339

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: "المَعْرُوفُ ذَخيرَةُ الأبَدِ۔" This can be translated as

Benevolence is an everlasting reserve.

Let us delve into the connotation of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word "ma'ruf" in this Hadith refers to acts of goodness, righteousness, and kindness. It encompasses all actions that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and beneficial to others. It includes acts of charity, compassion, justice, and all forms of virtuous behavior. The term "dakhira" means reserve or treasure, indicating that acts of benevolence are not only beneficial in the present, but they also have everlasting rewards and blessings.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of performing acts of goodness and righteousness. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:177)

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 importance of performing acts of kindness and charity to those in need, which is a manifestation of ma'ruf.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (2:43)

And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience]

Here, Allah emphasizes the importance of establishing prayer and giving zakah, which are acts of benevolence towards Allah and the community. These acts not only purify the soul but also contribute to the betterment of society.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that acts of benevolence are not limited to specific times or places. They are not temporary or fleeting. Instead, they have everlasting rewards and blessings. When we engage in acts of goodness, we are building a reserve of blessings that will benefit us in this world and the Hereafter.

For example, when we give charity to the needy, we not only alleviate their suffering but also earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This act of benevolence becomes a reserve of good deeds that will intercede for us on the Day of Judgment. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah, (2:245)

Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over? And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance, and to Him you will be returned

Similarly, acts of kindness, compassion, and justice have a lasting impact on individuals and society. When we treat others with respect and fairness, we contribute to the well-being of the community and foster a harmonious environment. These acts of ma'ruf become a reserve of goodwill that will benefit us in this life and the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the eternal nature of benevolence. He encourages us to engage in acts of goodness, righteousness, and kindness, not just as temporary acts, but as a way of life. By doing so, we build a reserve of blessings that will accompany us throughout our journey in this world and the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and motivation to engage in acts of benevolence, and may He accept our efforts and make them a means of attaining His pleasure and eternal rewards.