Hadith #4703

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 righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The most honourable of qualities is generosity, and the most universal in benefit is justice.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the important words in this Hadith. The word (سَخَاءُ) "sakhā" is translated as "generosity." It refers to the act of giving freely and abundantly, without expecting anything in return. It encompasses acts of kindness, charity, and selflessness. The word (عَدْلُ) "ʿadl" is translated as "justice." It refers to fairness, equity, and upholding what is right. It involves treating others with equality, ensuring their rights are respected, and maintaining balance in all matters.

The Quran emphasizes the significance of generosity and justice in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (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; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous.

This verse highlights the importance of generosity in Islam. It teaches us that true righteousness is not limited to mere rituals or outward displays of faith. Rather, it encompasses sincere belief in Allah and His messengers, coupled with the act of giving wealth to those in need. This act of generosity is a manifestation of justice, as it ensures that the rights of the less fortunate are fulfilled.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the significance of justice in multiple verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa (4:135),

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding justice, even if it goes against our personal interests or the interests of our loved ones. It reminds us that justice should not be compromised for any reason. By being just, we ensure that everyone is treated fairly and their rights are protected.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully encapsulates the essence of these Quranic teachings. It highlights the noble qualities of generosity and justice, which are not only honorable but also have universal benefits. Generosity brings joy and relief to those in need, fostering a sense of compassion and unity within society. It also purifies the heart and strengthens the bond between individuals.

Similarly, justice ensures that everyone is treated fairly, regardless of their social status, wealth, or background. It establishes a harmonious and balanced society, where the rights of all individuals are protected. Justice is the foundation of a just and equitable society, where peace and prosperity can flourish.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, highlights the significance of these qualities. His own life serves as a shining example of embodying generosity and justice. He was known for his generosity towards the poor and needy, often giving away his own belongings to help others. He was also a paragon of justice, ensuring that the rights of all individuals were upheld during his rule.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of generosity and justice in Islam. These qualities are not only honorable but also have universal benefits for individuals and society as a whole. By embodying these qualities, we can strive towards creating a just and compassionate society, where the rights of all individuals are respected and upheld. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate these qualities in our lives and may He bless us with His mercy and guidance.