Hadith #4997

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

السَّيِّدُ مَنْ تَحَمَّلَ المَؤُنَةَ، وَجادَ بِالمَعُونَةِ۔

This Hadith highlights the qualities of an eminent person, emphasizing the importance of shouldering responsibilities and being generous in providing assistance.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (sayyid) "سَيِّد" refers to a person of high rank, honor, and nobility. It signifies someone who possesses exceptional qualities and stands out among others. (tahammala) "تَحَمَّلَ" means to bear or shoulder a burden or responsibility. It implies taking on the weight of obligations and fulfilling them with dedication and perseverance. (al-ma'unah) "المَؤُنَةَ" refers to providing for the needs of others, encompassing both material and emotional support. Finally, (wajada) "وَجَادَ" means to be generous, open-handed, and liberal in giving assistance.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of shouldering responsibilities and providing for others in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:83)

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the obligation to provide for the needs of others, including relatives, orphans, and the needy. It emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities towards society and being generous in our assistance. Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:29)

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse warns against being stingy or withholding assistance, as it leads to blame and impoverishment. It encourages Muslims to be generous and open-handed, always ready to extend a helping hand to those in need.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the qualities of an eminent person. Such a person is not only willing to bear the responsibility of providing for others but also goes beyond that by being generous in their assistance. This Hadith encourages Muslims to actively seek out opportunities to help others and to be selfless in their actions.

By embodying the qualities mentioned in this Hadith, Muslims can create a society that is compassionate, caring, and supportive. When individuals take on the responsibility of providing for others and are generous in their assistance, they foster an environment of unity and harmony. This leads to the well-being and prosperity of the community as a whole.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can ask ourselves how we can shoulder our responsibilities more effectively and be more generous in our assistance. We can strive to be proactive in identifying the needs of others and offering our support. Whether it is through financial aid, emotional support, or lending a helping hand, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the qualities of an eminent person. By shouldering responsibilities and being generous in our assistance, we can create a society that is compassionate and supportive. Let us strive to embody these qualities and make a positive difference in the lives of others. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our efforts and bless us with the ability to fulfill our responsibilities and be generous in our assistance.