Hadith #2307

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) states,

The best grant is that which is [bestowed] before the humility of having to ask [for it].

This thought-provoking saying highlights the virtue of giving and the importance of providing assistance to others without them having to ask for it.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (at-tiyyah) "عَطِيَّةِ" refers to a grant or gift given willingly and generously. It signifies an act of kindness and charity. The word (madhallah) "مَذَلَّةِ" refers to the state of humility or humiliation that one experiences when they have to ask for something. It implies a sense of need and dependency.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the virtue of giving and the rewards associated with it in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (2:57)

And spend of what We have provided for you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.'

This verse highlights the importance of giving before it is too late, before the moment of death arrives. It encourages Muslims to be proactive in their acts of charity and generosity. By doing so, they can attain righteousness and seek the pleasure of Allah.

Another verse that aligns with the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra, where Allah says, (17:29)

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse warns against being miserly and stingy, as it leads to a state of blame and impoverishment. It encourages Muslims to be open-handed and generous, avoiding the humiliation of having to ask for assistance.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. The Imam reminds us that the best form of giving is when it is done willingly and without the need for someone to ask for it. When we provide assistance to others before they have to humble themselves and ask for help, we not only alleviate their burden but also preserve their dignity.

This Hadith teaches us the importance of empathy and compassion. It urges us to be proactive in identifying the needs of others and fulfilling them to the best of our abilities. By doing so, we not only fulfill our duty as Muslims but also cultivate a sense of selflessness and generosity within ourselves.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the immense reward that awaits those who give willingly and generously. Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises abundant blessings and rewards for those who spend in His cause. The act of giving without being asked is a reflection of true sincerity and a manifestation of the love and compassion that we should have for our fellow human beings.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the virtue of giving before the need to ask arises. It encourages Muslims to be proactive in their acts of charity and generosity, preserving the dignity of those in need. By reflecting on the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of Imam Ali, we can strive to embody the noble qualities of selflessness and compassion in our lives. May Allah guide us all to be generous and compassionate Muslims.