The people said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! The rich people have got the highest degrees of prestige and the
permanent pleasures (in this life and the life to come in the Hereafter)." He said, "How is that?" They
said, "The rich pray as we pray, and strive in Allah's Cause as we do, and spend from their surplus
wealth in charity, while we have no wealth (to spend likewise)." He said, "Shall I not tell you a thing,
by doing which, you will catch up with those who are ahead of you and supersede those who will
come after you; and nobody will be able to do such a good deed as you do except the one who does
the same (deed as you do). That deed is to recite 'Subhan Allah ten times, and 'Al-Hamduli l-lah ten
times, and 'AllahuAkbar' ten times after every prayer."
Narrated by Narrated Abu Huraira:
Context
In this hadith, the companions express their concern to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) about the advantages that wealthy individuals have in terms of spiritual rewards, as they can contribute financially to good causes. The Prophet (ﷺ) responds by teaching them a simple yet profound practice of remembrance that can elevate their status and allow them to compete with the rich in terms of spiritual merit, emphasizing that sincere devotion can transcend material wealth.
Modern Application
In today's world, we can apply this principle by incorporating regular dhikr into our daily routines, such as after prayers. This practice not only enhances our spiritual connection but also serves as a reminder that our worth in the eyes of Allah is not solely determined by our financial contributions but also by our devotion and remembrance.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Charity and Good Deeds because it emphasizes that spiritual elevation can be achieved through acts of remembrance, which are accessible to all, regardless of their financial status.
Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [Allah 's blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.
And why do you not spend in the cause of Allah while to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth? Not equal among you are those who spent before the conquest [of Makkah] and fought [and those who did so after it]. Those are greater in degree than they who spent afterwards and fought. But to all Allah has promised the best [reward]. And Allah, with what you do, is Acquainted.
Believe in Allah and His Messenger and spend out of that in which He has made you successors. For those who have believed among you and spent, there will be a great reward.
And the example of those who spend their wealth seeking means to the approval of Allah and assuring [reward for] themselves is like a garden on high ground which is hit by a downpour - so it yields its fruits in double. And [even] if it is not hit by a downpour, then a drizzle [is sufficient]. And Allah, of what you do, is Seeing.
It is that of which Allah gives good tidings to His servants who believe and do righteous deeds. Say, [O Muhammad], "I do not ask you for this message any payment [but] only good will through kinship." And whoever commits a good deed - We will increase for him good therein. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Appreciative.
