The Prophet (ﷺ) was the most generous amongst the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Gabriel visited him, and Gabriel used to meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month. The Prophet (ﷺ) used to recite the Holy Qur'an to Gabriel, and when Gabriel met him, he used to be more generous than a fast wind (which causes rain and welfare).
Hadith Commentary: The Prophet's Generosity in Ramadan
This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (1902) illuminates the sublime character of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the special spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan. The text describes his unparalleled generosity, which reached its zenith during this blessed month through his nightly spiritual encounters with the Angel Gabriel (Jibrīl).
The Nature of Prophetic Generosity
The Prophet's generosity (jūd) encompassed all forms of giving: wealth, knowledge, time, compassion, and spiritual guidance. His character embodied the Qur'anic description of believers who "give preference over themselves, even though they are in privation" (59:9). This was not occasional charity but a constant state of being.
The comparison to "fast wind" (ar-riḥ al-mursala) signifies a generosity that is continuous, far-reaching, and brings comprehensive benefit like nourishing rain. Just as wind spreads seeds and rain brings life, the Prophet's generosity cultivated faith, knowledge, and compassion throughout the community.
Spiritual Significance of Gabriel's Visits
Gabriel's nightly visits during Ramadan represent the descent of divine mercy and revelation. The mutual recitation (al-ʿarda) between Prophet and Angel signifies the renewal of connection with the Qur'an. This spiritual communion transformed the Prophet's inner state, intensifying his natural generosity to supernatural levels.
Scholars note that this annual review ensured the precise preservation of revelation while demonstrating how proximity to the Qur'an elevates human character. The nights of Ramadan thus became a spiritual training ground where divine connection perfected human virtues.
Practical Lessons for Believers
This hadith teaches that Ramadan should transform us into more generous versions of ourselves. Increased recitation of Qur'an should naturally lead to increased charity, kindness, and service to others. The Prophet's example shows that spiritual advancement manifests in tangible goodness toward creation.
The connection between nightly devotion and daily generosity demonstrates Islam's integrated approach to worship - where spiritual practices must translate into ethical conduct. Fasting thus becomes not merely abstention but active giving, following the Prophetic model of being "more generous than the fast wind."