Hadith #1459

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who withholds his hand from [spending on] his family has only held back one hand from them but caused many hands to be withheld by them [against him].

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the financial responsibilities towards one's family and the consequences of neglecting this duty.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words and their meanings. The word (yaqbidh) "يَقْبِضْ" means to withhold or hold back. (yadahu) "يَدَهُ" refers to one's hand, symbolizing the act of giving or spending. (ashiratihi) "عَشيرَتِهِ" refers to one's family, encompassing the immediate family members who depend on an individual for their financial well-being.

This Hadith highlights the negative consequences of neglecting one's financial obligations towards their family. By withholding their hand from spending on their family, they are not only depriving their loved ones of their rightful sustenance but also causing resentment and animosity to grow within the family. This resentment can manifest in various ways, such as strained relationships, lack of trust, and even potential harm or neglect towards the individual who fails to fulfill their responsibilities.

To further understand the significance of fulfilling one's financial obligations towards the family, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:233),

Mothers may breastfeed their children two complete years for whoever wishes to complete the nursing [period].

This verse emphasizes the importance of providing for the needs of children, including their nourishment and care.

Additionally, in Surah At-Talaq (65:6), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Lodge them [in a section] of where you dwell out of your means and do not harm them in order to oppress them.

This verse highlights the obligation to provide a suitable living arrangement for one's family, ensuring their well-being and protecting them from harm.

Furthermore, in Surah An-Nisa (4:34), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instructs husbands to provide for their wives, stating,

Men are in charge of women by [right of] what Allah has given one over the other and what they spend [for maintenance] from their wealth.

This verse emphasizes the responsibility of husbands to financially support their wives, ensuring their dignity and well-being.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that fulfilling our financial obligations towards our family is not only a duty but also a means of maintaining harmony, love, and respect within the family unit. Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to strained relationships, resentment, and a breakdown of the family structure.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, reminds us of the consequences of withholding our hand from spending on our family. By doing so, we not only deprive them of their rights but also create an environment of discord and animosity. It is our duty as Muslims to prioritize the well-being of our family members and fulfill our financial responsibilities towards them, as prescribed by Allah and exemplified by the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to fulfill our financial obligations towards our family, and may He bless our families with love, harmony, and prosperity.