Hadith #1794

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The generosity of a poor person dignifies him and the stinginess of a rich person debases him.

This Hadith highlights the profound impact of generosity and stinginess on an individual's character and status in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. "Jood" refers to generosity, which encompasses acts of kindness, charity, and selflessness. It is the quality of giving abundantly and willingly, without expecting anything in return. "Faqeer" refers to a poor person, someone who lacks material wealth but possesses humility, patience, and reliance on Allah. "Yujilluhu" means to dignify or honor, while "bukhl" refers to stinginess or miserliness. "Ghani" refers to a rich person, someone who possesses wealth and resources.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 emphasizes the immense reward and blessings that come with generosity. When a person selflessly gives from what they have, Allah multiplies their reward and elevates their status.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's sustenance and relying on Him in all matters. A poor person who displays generosity despite their limited resources demonstrates their trust in Allah's provision. This act of faith and reliance on Allah dignifies them in the eyes of Allah and the believers.

On the other hand, the stinginess of a rich person can lead to their debasement. In Surah Al-Humazah (104:1-3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the consequences of stinginess, saying,

Woe to every scorner and mocker, who collects wealth and [continuously] counts it. He thinks that his wealth will make him immortal.

This verse highlights the arrogance and delusion that can accompany wealth and stinginess. When a rich person hoards their wealth and becomes obsessed with its accumulation, they lose sight of their true purpose in life and their connection with Allah. This behavior leads to their degradation and humiliation.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see that generosity is not limited to material wealth. It encompasses acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness in all aspects of life. A poor person who displays generosity with their time, knowledge, and resources, despite their limited means, earns the respect and honor of Allah and the believers. Conversely, a rich person who is stingy and fails to use their wealth for the betterment of society and the upliftment of others, diminishes their own character and status.

As Muslims, we should strive to embody the spirit of generosity and avoid the trap of stinginess. By following the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and understanding the profound impact of our actions on our character and relationship with Allah, we can elevate ourselves and contribute to a more compassionate and just society. May Allah guide us all on the path of generosity and bless us with the means and opportunities to give selflessly.