Hadith #2313

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

Verily giving away this wealth is an acquisition [for the Hereafter] and withholding it is an affliction.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this statement and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (i'taa) "إعْطاءَ" in the Hadith refers to giving or bestowing something upon someone. It signifies an act of generosity and selflessness, where one willingly shares their wealth or possessions with others. On the other hand, the word (imsaakah) "إمْساكَهُ" means withholding or refraining from giving. It implies a sense of greed and selfishness, where one clings onto their wealth and refuses to share it with those in need.

To understand the profoundness of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving and charity in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 63:10)

And spend of what We have provided for you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.'

This verse highlights the urgency of giving in this worldly life before it is too late. It reminds us that our wealth is a temporary provision from Allah, and we should utilize it wisely by giving to those in need. By doing so, we not only benefit others but also acquire immense rewards in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises great blessings and abundance for those who give generously. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:261)

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 giving as an acquisition for the Hereafter. Just as a single seed yields a bountiful harvest, our acts of charity and generosity multiply manifold in the sight of Allah. By giving away our wealth, we not only benefit others in this world but also secure immense rewards and blessings in the Hereafter.

Conversely, withholding or hoarding wealth is described as an affliction in the Hadith. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that condemn greed and selfishness. In Surah Al-Isra, Allah warns, (Quran 9:34)

Indeed, those who accumulate wealth and withhold it from the people are only accumulating it for themselves. And those who hoard gold and silver and spend it not in the way of Allah - give them tidings of a painful punishment.

This verse serves as a stark reminder that clinging onto wealth without sharing it with others is not only detrimental to our spiritual well-being but also invites severe punishment from Allah. Hoarding wealth not only deprives those in need but also corrupts the heart and distances us from the path of righteousness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazing Hadith encapsulates the essence of Islamic teachings on wealth and generosity. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness, compassion, and the acquisition of eternal rewards through giving. By sharing our wealth with others, we not only alleviate their suffering but also purify our souls and strengthen our relationship with Allah.

Let us reflect upon this Hadith and strive to embody the spirit of generosity and selflessness in our lives. May Allah bless us with the ability to give generously and make us among those who acquire immense rewards in the Hereafter.