Hadith #1413

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أقْبَحُ البُخْلِ مَنْعُ الأمْوالِ مِنْ مُسْتَحِقِّها۔

This Hadith highlights the repugnance of withholding money from those who rightfully deserve it. Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (bukhl) "بُخْلِ" in this Hadith refers to stinginess or miserliness. It is the act of withholding or refraining from giving what is due or deserved. The word (man') "مَنْعُ" means to prevent or obstruct, and (al-amwal) "الأمْوالِ" refers to wealth or possessions. Lastly, (mustahiqiha) "مُسْتَحِقِّها" means those who are deserving or entitled to receive.

In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of giving to those in need and fulfilling the rights of others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (2:195)

And spend of your substance in the cause of Allah, and make not your own hands contribute to (your) destruction; but do good; for Allah loveth those who do good

This verse highlights the obligation to spend one's wealth for the sake of Allah and to help those who are deserving.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah states, (17:26)

Give the kinsman his due, and the needy, and the wayfarer, and squander not (your wealth) in wantonness

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the rights of relatives, the needy, and travelers, while also cautioning against wastefulness.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that withholding money from those who rightfully deserve it is a despicable act of stinginess. It goes against the principles of generosity, compassion, and justice that Islam promotes.

When we withhold money from those who are deserving, we not only deny them their rights but also deprive ourselves of the blessings and rewards associated with giving. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises abundant rewards for those who give generously and fulfill the rights of others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (2:261)

The likeness of those who spend their wealth in Allah's way is as the likeness of a grain which groweth seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah giveth increase manifold to whom He will. Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing

Moreover, withholding money from those who deserve it can have severe consequences not only in this world but also in the hereafter. In Surah Al-Ma'un, Allah warns, (107:4-7)

So woe to the worshippers who are neglectful of their prayers, those who want but withhold (simple assistance)

This verse highlights the condemnation of those who neglect their religious duties and withhold assistance from those in need.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of fulfilling the rights of others and being generous with our wealth. He sets an example for us to follow, as he was known for his selflessness and willingness to help those in need.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the repugnance of withholding money from those who rightfully deserve it. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of generosity, compassion, and fulfilling the rights of others. As Muslims, it is our duty to be mindful of our wealth and ensure that we give to those in need, thereby seeking the pleasure of Allah and embodying the noble qualities exemplified by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble companions. May Allah guide us to be generous and just in all aspects of our lives.