Hadith #716

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْعُ خَيْرِكَ يَدْعُوا إلى صُحبَةِ غيرِكَ۔

This can be translated as,

Holding back your kindness invites [your companions] to accompany someone other than you.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (man'u) "مَنْعُ" refers to the act of withholding or preventing something. In this context, it signifies the act of holding back one's kindness or goodness towards others. The word (khayrik) "خَيْرِكَ" refers to one's goodness, virtues, or acts of kindness. It encompasses all forms of benevolence, whether material or spiritual. The phrase (yad'u ila suhbati ghayrik)

يَدْعُوا إلى صُحبَةِ غيرِكَ

means that by withholding your kindness, you inadvertently invite others to seek the companionship of someone other than you.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness, generosity, and maintaining good relations with others. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83, Allah says,

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 do good to others, including relatives, orphans, and the needy.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 23, Allah commands,

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating parents with kindness and respect, even in old age. It teaches us that withholding our goodness towards them would be a grave mistake, as it may push them away and invite others to take our place in their companionship.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) sheds light on the consequences of withholding our kindness. When we fail to show kindness and generosity towards others, we create a void in their lives. This void will naturally be filled by someone else who is willing to extend their goodness and companionship. By holding back our kindness, we unintentionally push people away and invite others to take our place in their hearts and lives.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be proactive in showing kindness and goodness towards others. It urges us to be mindful of the consequences of withholding our acts of benevolence. By being generous with our time, resources, and compassion, we strengthen our relationships and ensure that we remain the preferred companions of those around us.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. He understood the importance of maintaining strong bonds with others through acts of kindness and generosity. His own life serves as a shining example of this principle. He was always ready to extend a helping hand, offer support, and share his wisdom with those around him. His companionship was sought after by many, and he became a role model for Muslims throughout history.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of showing kindness and goodness towards others. By withholding our acts of benevolence, we inadvertently invite others to seek companionship elsewhere. Let us strive to follow the teachings of the Quran and the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) by being generous, compassionate, and proactive in our relationships with others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to be the source of goodness and companionship for those around us.