بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ
In the rich tapestry of Islamic teachings, Sadaqa, or charitable giving, stands as a beacon of virtue. In this article, lets look at the excellence of Sadaqa in Islam.
The hadith below emphasizes not just any form of charity, but the most excellent of Sadaqa. It is the one that leaves the giver enriched, where the upper hand is superior to the lower hand.
Join us on a journey to comprehend the profound essence of this noble act and discover the transformative power it holds.
Hadith Regarding the Excellence of Sadaqa in Islam
حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ بَشَّارٍ، وَمُحَمَّدُ بْنُ حَاتِمٍ، وَأَحْمَدُ بْنُ عَبْدَةَ، جَمِيعًا عَنْ يَحْيَى الْقَطَّانِ، – قَالَ ابْنُ بَشَّارٍ حَدَّثَنَا يَحْيَى، – حَدَّثَنَا عَمْرُو بْنُ عُثْمَانَ، قَالَ سَمِعْتُ مُوسَى بْنَ طَلْحَةَ، يُحَدِّثُ أَنَّ حَكِيمَ بْنَ حِزَامٍ، حَدَّثَهُ أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ “ أَفْضَلُ الصَّدَقَةِ – أَوْ خَيْرُ الصَّدَقَةِ – عَنْ ظَهْرِ غِنًى وَالْيَدُ الْعُلْيَا خَيْرٌ مِنَ الْيَدِ السُّفْلَى وَابْدَأْ بِمَنْ تَعُولُ ”.
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) having said this: The most excellent Sadaqa or the best of Sadaqa is that after giving which the (giver) remains rich and the upper hand is better than the lower hand, and begin from the members of your household.
Source: Sahih Muslim 1034
Narrated by: Hakim b Hizam (RA)
Defining Excellence in Sadaqa
At the heart of this hadith lies a call to transcend ordinary acts of charity. “The most excellent Sadaqa” beckons us to move beyond the mere act of giving, urging us to infuse our charitable deeds with the spirit of generosity that knows no bounds.
In embracing this concept, we unlock the true potential of Sadaqa to bring about positive change, not just in the lives of the recipients but also within the giver’s soul.
Remaining Rich After Giving
The wisdom behind the assertion that the best Sadaqa is one that leaves the giver rich unveils a profound truth.
It challenges the notion that charity depletes wealth, emphasizing instead a sustainable model of giving.
In enriching others, the giver finds enrichment, creating a perpetual cycle of generosity that uplifts both the individual and the community.
The hadith invites us to redefine our understanding of wealth, recognizing that true richness lies in the ability to give without restraint.
Excellence of Sadaqa in Islam: The Superiority of the Upper Hand
Symbolism resonates deeply in the hadith, especially in the imagery of the upper hand being superior to the lower hand.
This metaphor transcends the physical act of giving; it delves into the dignity and respect associated with charitable deeds.
The upper hand represents not just material generosity but also the elevation of the human spirit.
It underscores the importance of approaching charity with grace. It ensures that both giver and receiver engage in a dignified exchange that honors the principles of Islam.
Starting Charity at Home
The hadith further implores us to begin our charitable endeavors within the confines of our own households.
This directive recognizes the foundational role of family in Islamic teachings and extends the reach of charity to those closest to us.
By prioritizing acts of kindness and giving within our homes, we sow the seeds of compassion that will inevitably blossom in the broader community.
It’s a call to nurture a culture of generosity that begins with our loved ones and radiates outward.
Implementing Excellence in Sadaqa
Practical application of the teachings within the hadith requires a thoughtful and conscious approach to charitable giving.
It involves an introspective examination of our motives and a commitment to infuse every act of charity with the spirit of excellence.
Whether through financial contributions, volunteerism, or simple acts of kindness, we can embody the principles outlined in the hadith.
Consider the impact of supporting sustainable initiatives that empower individuals and communities over the long term. Engage in charitable acts that not only provide immediate relief but also contribute to the lasting welfare of recipients.
Elevate your giving by understanding the needs of the recipients, treating them with respect and dignity, and fostering a sense of empowerment.
Conclusion About The Excellence of Sadaqa in Islam
In the intricate mosaic of Islamic teachings, the hadith on the excellence of Sadaqa shines as a guiding light.
It beckons us to rise above ordinary acts of charity and embrace a model that enriches both giver and receiver.
The wisdom embedded in the hadith challenges us to redefine our understanding of wealth, emphasizing the perpetual benefits of generous giving.
As we navigate the landscape of charitable deeds, let us heed the call for excellence in Sadaqa. May our upper hands be a source of dignity and empowerment, and may our homes be the starting point for a ripple effect of compassion and generosity.
In embodying the principles of this profound hadith, we unlock the transformative power of Sadaqa, making a lasting impact on our communities and, ultimately, on our own souls.
As always, do share this article out to all of your family and friends. May it be one of the long lasting good deeds that rewards us well. Here and in the hereafter, InsyaAllah.
