Hadith #1242

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Three things are from the treasures of faith: concealing misfortune, charity, and sickness.

This impactful saying highlights three important aspects of faith that every Muslim should strive to embody.

The first treasure of faith mentioned in this Hadith is "concealing misfortune" or "kiteman al-musibah". This refers to the act of keeping one's personal difficulties and hardships hidden from others. It is a display of patience and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) during times of trial. The concept of concealing misfortune can be found in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse emphasizes the importance of patience during times of poverty and hardship. It encourages Muslims to endure their difficulties with grace and dignity, without seeking attention or sympathy from others. By concealing our misfortunes, we demonstrate our trust in Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) wisdom and our reliance on Him alone.

The second treasure of faith mentioned in the Hadith is "charity" or "sadaqah". Charity is an essential component of Islam and is highly encouraged in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 261, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 illustrates the immense reward and blessings that come from giving in the way of Allah. Charity not only benefits those in need but also purifies the heart and increases one's faith. It is a means of expressing gratitude to Allah for the blessings He has bestowed upon us. By giving generously, we demonstrate our willingness to share our wealth and resources with others, thus strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and compassion within the Muslim community.

The third treasure of faith mentioned in the Hadith is "sickness" or "al-marad". Sickness is a natural part of life and can be seen as a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It serves as a reminder of our vulnerability and dependence on Allah's mercy and healing. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse highlights the importance of patience and perseverance during times of sickness and adversity. It reminds us that our faith is tested not only during times of ease but also during times of hardship. Sickness can be a means of purifying our souls, strengthening our faith, and drawing closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It teaches us humility and reminds us of our ultimate dependence on Allah's healing and mercy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides valuable insights into the treasures of faith. It emphasizes the importance of concealing misfortune, practicing charity, and enduring sickness with patience and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). These three aspects of faith are deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran and serve as a guide for Muslims in their journey towards spiritual growth and righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody these treasures of faith and strengthen our relationship with Him.