Hadith #4705

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the superiority of a particular type of generosity. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the generosity of refraining from taking what others possess is better than the generosity of giving. This beautiful Hadith urges Muslims to adopt a mindset of selflessness and contentment, where they prioritize the well-being and possessions of others over their own desires.

To fully comprehend the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (sakhā') "سَخَاءَ" refers to generosity, which encompasses acts of giving, sharing, and selflessness. It is a virtue highly regarded in Islam. The word (nafs) "نَفْسِ" translates to "self" or "soul," representing one's desires and inclinations. (aydī) "أَيْدِي" means "hands" and symbolizes possessions or belongings. Lastly, (bazl) "بَذْلِ" means "giving" or "bestowing."

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9):

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home (i.e., the Emigrants) and [adopted] the faith before them. They love those who emigrated to them and find not any want in their breasts of what the emigrants were given but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of selflessness and generosity towards others. The believers mentioned in this verse are praised for their love and preference for the emigrants who sought refuge with them. Despite their own needs and limitations, they prioritize the well-being of others. This aligns with the message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith, as he encourages Muslims to refrain from taking what others possess and instead prioritize their generosity towards others.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

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 highlights the importance of seeking sustenance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than relying on the possessions of others. It encourages Muslims to have faith in Allah's provision and to be content with what they have, rather than coveting what belongs to others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in the Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate a mindset of selflessness and contentment. By refraining from taking what others possess, we demonstrate respect for their rights and acknowledge that their possessions are a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This mindset encourages us to prioritize the well-being of others over our own desires and to find satisfaction in giving rather than acquiring.

The consequences of adopting this mindset are profound. It fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood within the Muslim community, as individuals prioritize the needs of others. It also helps to eradicate envy and greed, as Muslims learn to be content with what they have and focus on the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Moreover, this mindset instills a sense of trust and reliance on Allah's provision, as Muslims understand that their sustenance comes from Him alone.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can draw inspiration from the life of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself. Known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified the virtue of selflessness throughout his life. Despite his elevated status, he lived a simple and humble life, always prioritizing the needs of others. His generosity was not limited to material possessions but extended to his knowledge, as he dedicated himself to teaching and guiding others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the generosity of refraining from taking what others possess over the generosity of giving. By adopting a mindset of selflessness and contentment, we can foster unity, eradicate envy and greed, and strengthen our trust in Allah's provision. Let us strive to emulate the noble qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and embody the teachings of the Quran in our daily lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us on the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.