Hadith #1467

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لامُرُوَّةَ لِبَخيل۔" which translates to

There is no magnanimity in a miser.

This concise statement holds deep wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect or school of thought.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us first explore the key words used. The word (lamurra) "لامُرُوَّةَ" refers to magnanimity, generosity, or nobility of character. It encompasses the qualities of being open-handed, selfless, and willing to give abundantly for the sake of Allah and the well-being of others. On the other hand, (bakheel) "بَخيل" denotes a miser, someone who is stingy, selfish, and unwilling to part with their wealth or resources.

This Hadith highlights the stark contrast between the virtues of magnanimity and the vices of miserliness. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that true greatness lies in being generous and selfless, while miserliness is a characteristic that diminishes one's moral standing and spiritual growth.

The Quranic teachings support this Hadith, emphasizing the importance of generosity and the consequences of miserliness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 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 magnanimity, where spending in the way of Allah is likened to planting a seed that multiplies and bears abundant fruit. It emphasizes the immense reward and blessings that Allah bestows upon those who are generous and selfless in their actions.

Conversely, the Quran warns against the consequences of miserliness. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 180, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And let not those who [greedily] withhold what Allah has given them of His bounty ever think that it is better for them. Rather, it is worse for them. Their necks will be encircled by what they withheld on the Day of Resurrection. And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. And Allah, with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted.

This verse serves as a stern reminder that those who hoard their wealth and withhold it from those in need will face severe consequences on the Day of Resurrection. It highlights the spiritual and moral degradation that accompanies miserliness, as well as the loss of blessings and rewards in this world and the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith,

There is no magnanimity in a miser,

encapsulates these Quranic teachings. It urges Muslims to reflect upon their own actions and attitudes towards wealth and resources. It reminds us that true greatness lies in being generous, selfless, and willing to share our blessings with others, for the sake of Allah and the betterment of society.

By embodying the virtue of magnanimity, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from helping others. Generosity and selflessness are qualities that elevate our character, strengthen our relationship with Allah, and contribute to the well-being of the community.

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

There is no magnanimity in a miser,

serves as a powerful reminder for all Muslims to cultivate the virtue of generosity and to avoid the pitfalls of miserliness. It aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the importance of selflessness and the consequences of withholding wealth. May we all strive to embody the noble qualities of magnanimity and generosity, seeking the pleasure of Allah and the betterment of humanity.