Hadith #2485

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 advises us not to consider our acts of giving as excessive, even if we are giving abundantly. He emphasizes that the praise and appreciation we receive for our generosity will outweigh the value of the material possessions we give.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this hadith by examining the key words and concepts it presents. The word (ataa) "عَطَاء" refers to giving or bestowing, while (thanaa) "ثَنَاء" means praise or commendation. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging us not to be hesitant in our acts of giving, regardless of the quantity or value of what we give. He reminds us that the reward for our generosity is not limited to the material possessions we offer, but also encompasses the appreciation and recognition we receive from others.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds resonance in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtues of giving and the rewards that come with it. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 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

This verse highlights the concept of giving as a loan to Allah, and assures us that He will multiply our rewards manifold.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, Allah states, (Quran 57:11)

Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him and he will have a noble reward?

Here, Allah emphasizes the noble reward that awaits those who give generously in His cause. This reward goes beyond the material possessions we give, encompassing the blessings and honor bestowed upon us by Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice is rooted in the understanding that the act of giving is not solely about the physical act itself, but also about the intention and the impact it has on the giver and the recipient. When we give selflessly, without expecting anything in return, we purify our hearts and strengthen our connection with Allah. Our generosity becomes a means of seeking His pleasure and drawing closer to Him.

Moreover, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the praise and appreciation we receive for our acts of giving are invaluable. When others recognize and acknowledge our generosity, it not only affirms the goodness of our actions but also inspires and motivates others to follow suit. This ripple effect of positive influence and inspiration can lead to a collective culture of giving and compassion within society.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith encourages us to be generous in our giving, regardless of the quantity or value of what we give. He reminds us that the praise and appreciation we receive for our acts of generosity hold greater value than the material possessions we offer. This teaching aligns with the Quranic emphasis on the virtues of giving and the rewards that come with it. By embodying the spirit of selflessness and generosity, we not only seek the pleasure of Allah but also inspire others to follow the path of kindness and compassion. May Allah bless us with the ability to give generously and may our acts of giving be a means of drawing closer to Him.