Hadith #1773

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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) highlights the essence of true generosity. Let us delve into the words of this profound Hadith and explore its meaning in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (al-jood) "الجُودُ", which translates to "generosity." Generosity is an act of giving without any expectation of reward or compensation. It is a selfless act that stems from a pure heart and a sincere desire to help others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that true generosity is not motivated by fear or hope of recompense. It is a quality that exists within a person's character, regardless of external factors.

The Quran beautifully emphasizes the virtue of generosity in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:261)

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 highlights the concept of giving without expecting anything in return. Allah promises to multiply the reward for those who spend their wealth in His cause, but the act of giving should not be driven by the desire for this reward.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Insan, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the qualities of the righteous believers, saying, (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 selflessness and sincerity of true generosity. The believers give food to those in need solely for the sake of pleasing Allah, without expecting any form of compensation or gratitude from the recipients.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages Muslims to embody the spirit of true generosity in their actions. It teaches us that generosity should not be driven by the fear of losing something or the hope of gaining something in return. Rather, it should be a reflection of our innermost desire to help others and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone.

When we practice true generosity, we develop a sense of empathy and compassion towards those in need. Our acts of kindness become a means of uplifting others and spreading goodness in society. Moreover, true generosity has a profound impact on our own spiritual growth. It purifies our intentions, strengthens our faith, and aligns us with the teachings of Islam.

Let us reflect on the words of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to cultivate the virtue of true generosity within ourselves. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to give selflessly and may He accept our acts of generosity for His sake alone.