Hadith #9204

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) emphasizes the virtue of initiating good deeds and performing generous acts. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (fadilah) "فَضيلَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the merit or virtue of a particular action. It highlights the excellence and superiority of initiating good deeds and performing acts of generosity. This implies that those who possess noble character and a generous spirit are deserving of praise and reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The term (al-mubadarah) "المُبادَرَةِ" means to take the initiative or to be proactive in doing good. It signifies the importance of not waiting for others to act, but rather being the first to engage in acts of kindness and righteousness. This proactive approach demonstrates a higher level of moral consciousness and a deep sense of responsibility towards others.

Furthermore, the phrase (ila fi'li al-ma'ruf) "إلى فِعْلِ المَعْرُوفِ" refers to performing good deeds that are recognized and encouraged in Islam. These include acts of charity, kindness, justice, and any action that promotes the well-being of others. By engaging in such acts, one not only benefits others but also purifies their own soul and strengthens their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Hadith also mentions (isda' al-sanayi') "إسْداءِ الصَّنايِعِ" which can be translated as performing generous acts. This encompasses going beyond the basic requirements of goodness and extending oneself to help others in a generous and selfless manner. It encourages Muslims to be proactive in seeking opportunities to assist and support those in need, thereby embodying the spirit of compassion and selflessness.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds and being generous towards others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:177)

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

This verse highlights that true righteousness lies in believing in Allah and His teachings, and then translating that belief into action by giving generously to those in need. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness and the willingness to sacrifice material possessions for the sake of others.

Another relevant verse is found in Surah Al-Insan, where Allah says, (Quran 76:8-9)

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude'

This verse exemplifies the concept of performing generous acts solely for the sake of pleasing Allah and seeking His pleasure, without expecting any reward or gratitude from others.

From these Quranic verses, we can understand that initiating good deeds and performing generous acts are highly regarded in Islam. They are not only a means of benefiting others but also a means of purifying our own souls and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By taking the initiative in doing good, we demonstrate our commitment to the principles of Islam and our love for Allah and His creation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the merit and virtue of initiating good deeds and performing generous acts. It encourages Muslims to be proactive in seeking opportunities to do good and to go beyond the basic requirements of righteousness. By embodying these qualities, we not only benefit others but also strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strive towards attaining the highest levels of moral excellence. May Allah grant us the ability to be noble-minded individuals who actively engage in acts of goodness and generosity.