Hadith Text

Thawban reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "The best dinar a man spends is the dinar which he spends on his family, the dinar which he spends on his companions in the Way of Allah, and the dinar which he spends on his riding animal in the Way of Allah."

Reference: Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 748

Commentary on Spending Priorities

This noble hadith establishes a hierarchy of virtuous spending, beginning with one's family. The Prophet ﷺ placed expenditure on family first because it fulfills obligatory maintenance (nafaqah) and strengthens family bonds, which is a form of continuous charity (sadaqah jariyah).

Spending on companions in the Way of Allah refers to supporting fellow believers in jihad or religious pursuits, fostering brotherhood and collective strength in faith. The expenditure on riding animals for Allah's cause symbolizes preparing the means for jihad, demonstrating that even instrumental expenses become worship when intention is pure.

Scholarly Insights

Imam Al-Munawi explains that family spending is foremost because it combines both obligation and voluntary charity, while the other two categories represent supererogatory acts of great merit.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that this hadith teaches balance between domestic responsibilities and communal religious duties, showing Islam's comprehensive approach to wealth distribution.

The repetition of "dinar" emphasizes that each category holds distinct merit, and a believer should strive to excel in all three forms of expenditure according to their capacity.

Practical Application

A Muslim should prioritize providing for family's needs before other charitable acts, as neglecting this duty while giving to others is religiously blameworthy.

Wealth spent on supporting religious students, travelers, and those engaged in Islamic work falls under "spending on companions in the Way of Allah."

Maintaining transportation for visiting the sick, attending congregational prayers, or seeking knowledge qualifies as spending on riding animals in Allah's way when done with proper intention.