Hadith #2407

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 one who confers his favours to the honourable ones acquires the most sublime gains.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its profound implications in light of the Quran.

The word (zafira) "ظَفِرَ" in Arabic means to achieve victory or success. It signifies the attainment of a desired outcome or the accomplishment of a goal. In this context, it refers to the individual who bestows his blessings and favors upon the (saniyy al-maghānim) "سَنيِّ المَغانِمِ", which can be translated as the honorable ones or the noble individuals.

The phrase (wādiʿu sanāyiʿihi fī al-akārim)

واضِعُ صَنايِعِهِ في الأكارِمِ

can be understood as the one who places his efforts and endeavors in benefiting the honorable individuals. This implies that the person not only possesses blessings and favors but also actively utilizes them to uplift and support those who are deserving of honor and respect.

To comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness, generosity, and the act of conferring favors upon others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 177, Allah says,

It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the east or the west, but righteousness is to believe in Allah and the Last Day, and the angels, and the Book, and the Prophets, and to give of your wealth out of love for Him, to your kin and orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and those who ask, and for the freeing of slaves.

This verse highlights the significance of giving from one's wealth and resources to those in need, including orphans, the needy, and the wayfarer. By doing so, one demonstrates righteousness and fulfills their duty towards Allah. Similarly, in Surah Al-Insan, verse 8, Allah says,

And they give food, in spite of their love for it (or for the love of Him), to the poor, the orphan, and the captive.

These verses from the Quran emphasize the importance of conferring favors upon those who are deserving, as it is a means of expressing love for Allah and fulfilling our obligations towards our fellow human beings. The act of giving and bestowing blessings upon the honorable ones is not only a means of acquiring sublime gains in the hereafter but also a reflection of one's character and piety.

When we reflect on the consequences of practicing the teachings of this Hadith, we realize that conferring favors upon the honorable ones leads to a virtuous cycle of goodness. By uplifting and supporting those who are deserving of honor, we contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. This act of kindness and generosity not only benefits the recipients but also brings about a sense of fulfillment and contentment within ourselves.

Moreover, the act of conferring favors upon the honorable ones is a reflection of the knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Imam Ali possessed immense knowledge and understanding of the teachings of Islam, and he exemplified these teachings through his actions and words. His emphasis on conferring favors upon the honorable ones highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting those who embody noble qualities and virtues.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the significance of conferring favors upon the honorable ones. By bestowing our blessings and resources upon those who deserve honor and respect, we not only acquire sublime gains in the hereafter but also contribute to the betterment of society. This act of kindness and generosity reflects our piety and love for Allah, and it is a manifestation of the wisdom and knowledge of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May we strive to embody these teachings and follow in the footsteps of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).