Hadith #1429

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the repulsive nature of stinginess and its impact on an individual's appearance and character. The word (bukhl) "بُخْلَ" refers to stinginess or miserliness, which is the opposite of generosity. It is a quality that is despised in Islam and is condemned by both the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) vividly describes the repugnant appearance of a stingy person, stating that if one were to see such an individual, they would witness a disfigured person. This disfigurement is not physical but rather a reflection of the ugliness that emanates from within. It is a metaphorical disfigurement that causes people to turn away from the stingy person, as their miserliness affects not only their external appearance but also their internal character.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of generosity and condemn stinginess. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (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 immense reward and blessings that come with spending in the way of Allah. It encourages Muslims to be generous and selfless in their actions, as their wealth will be multiplied and their character will be elevated.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the detrimental effects of stinginess:

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power. And say: Truth hath come and falsehood hath vanished away. Lo! falsehood is ever bound to vanish.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking sustenance and blessings from Allah and not relying on one's own stinginess. It reminds Muslims to have trust in Allah's provision and to be generous in their dealings.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their own behavior and to strive towards embodying the qualities of generosity and selflessness. Stinginess not only tarnishes one's character but also distances them from the blessings and rewards that come with acts of charity and kindness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, and this Hadith is a testament to his understanding of human nature and the importance of cultivating virtuous qualities. As Muslims, we should strive to follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and embody the teachings of the Quran by being generous, selfless, and compassionate towards others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the vices of stinginess.