Hadith #1408

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the dangers of stinginess, stating that it is not only a negative trait but also leads to vilification. The Arabic word used in this Hadith for stinginess is (البُخْلَ) "al-bukhl", which refers to extreme reluctance in spending or giving, even when one has the means to do so. It is a characteristic that is despised in Islam, as it goes against the principles of generosity and compassion that are emphasized in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that highlight the importance of generosity and condemn stinginess. For example, in Surah Al-Hashr (59:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And [also for] those who were settled in the Home [i.e., Al-Madinah] 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 virtue of the Ansar (the residents of Madinah) who welcomed and supported the Muhajirun (the immigrants from Makkah). Despite their own limited resources, the Ansar did not hesitate to give preference to the needs of the Muhajirun over their own. This selflessness and generosity are praised as qualities that lead to success.

Another verse that highlights the importance of generosity is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), where 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 concept of

spending in the way of Allah,

which encompasses acts of charity, helping those in need, and supporting good causes. It compares the rewards of such spending to the growth of a seed that multiplies many times over. This serves as a motivation for Muslims to be generous and not let stinginess hinder their ability to earn immense rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warning against stinginess is a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their own attitudes towards wealth and possessions. Stinginess not only deprives others of help and support but also tarnishes one's reputation. When a person is known for being stingy, it brings about negative consequences, such as being seen as selfish, unkind, and lacking in compassion. This can lead to the vilification and criticism of others, as people tend to distance themselves from those who are known for their stinginess.

On the other hand, generosity has the power to uplift individuals and communities. It fosters a sense of unity, compassion, and goodwill among Muslims. When we are generous, we not only fulfill the needs of others but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the ummah. Moreover, generosity is a means of purifying our souls and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a reflection of the mercy and kindness that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us, and it is a way to emulate the noble character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of stinginess and its negative consequences. It urges us to embrace the values of generosity and compassion that are emphasized in the Quran. By being generous, we not only benefit others but also enhance our own character and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be generous and protect us from the vice of stinginess.