Hadith #449

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الإيثارُ غايَةُ الإحْسانِ" which translates to

Self-sacrifice is the highest degree of benevolence.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of selflessness and putting others before oneself.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (al-i'thar) "الإيثار" refers to the act of prioritizing others over oneself, sacrificing one's own needs and desires for the sake of others. It is an expression of selflessness and generosity. (ghayah) "غايَةُ" means the ultimate or highest degree, indicating that self-sacrifice is the pinnacle of benevolence. And (al-ihsan) "الإحْسانِ" refers to acts of kindness, goodness, and benevolence towards others.

This Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds its roots in the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of selflessness and putting others before oneself. In Surah Al-Hashr, Allah says, (Quran 59:9)

And [they are] those who give preference over themselves, even though they are in need

This verse highlights the virtue of self-sacrifice and the willingness to prioritize the needs of others, even when one is in need themselves.

Furthermore, the Quran encourages Muslims to be generous and to give to those in need. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 3:92)

You will not attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love. And whatever you spend - indeed, Allah is Knowing of it

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving from what we hold dear, demonstrating our willingness to sacrifice for the sake of others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to embody the spirit of selflessness and generosity in their daily lives. It encourages us to go beyond mere acts of kindness and to strive for the highest level of benevolence by prioritizing the needs of others above our own.

Self-sacrifice can manifest in various forms. It can be as simple as giving up our seat on a crowded bus for someone in need, or as profound as sacrificing our time, wealth, or even our lives for the betterment of others. By practicing self-sacrifice, we not only fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified the virtue of self-sacrifice through his actions and teachings. His knowledge and wisdom were unparalleled, yet he always put the needs of others before his own. He would willingly give away his wealth and possessions to those in need, even if it meant he himself would go without. His selflessness and generosity were a testament to his deep understanding of the Quranic teachings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Self-sacrifice is the highest degree of benevolence

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to embody the spirit of selflessness and generosity in their lives. By prioritizing the needs of others above our own, we not only fulfill our duty towards our fellow human beings but also attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice self-sacrifice and strive for the highest degree of benevolence.