The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The upper hand is better than the lower hand (i.e. he who gives in charity is better than him who takes it). One should start giving first to his dependents. And the best object of charity is that which is given by a wealthy person (from the money which is left after his expenses). And whoever abstains from asking others for some financial help, Allah will give him and save him from asking others, Allah will make him self-sufficient."
Hadith Text and Context
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (1427, 1428) establishes fundamental principles of charity (Zakat and Sadaqah) in Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) delivered this guidance to shape the economic ethics of the Muslim community, emphasizing the dignity of giving over receiving and establishing priorities in charitable distribution.
Commentary on "The Upper Hand is Better"
The "upper hand" refers to the hand that gives charity, while the "lower hand" is that which receives it. Classical scholars explain this signifies the spiritual superiority and honor of the giver. Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments in Fath al-Bari that this preference isn't merely about social status but reflects the giver's obedience to Allah, fulfillment of religious duty, and cultivation of generosity - qualities that elevate one's rank in this life and the Hereafter.
The receiver, while entitled to assistance when genuinely needy, should maintain dignity and seek self-sufficiency. This teaching encourages Muslims to strive to be among the givers rather than the receivers, thus circulating wealth within the community.
Priority to Dependents
"One should start giving first to his dependents" establishes the hierarchy of charitable obligations. Scholars like Imam al-Nawawi explain that a Muslim's primary financial responsibility is toward immediate family members - parents, children, and spouse. This takes precedence over giving to others.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali elaborates that neglecting one's dependents while giving to outsiders is considered a misuse of wealth. The wisdom behind this priority is maintaining family stability, which forms the foundation of a stable society.
Quality of Charity from Surplus Wealth
"The best object of charity is that which is given by a wealthy person from the money left after his expenses" indicates that optimal charity comes from surplus wealth after fulfilling necessary obligations. Classical tafsir emphasizes that this doesn't diminish the value of small donations from the poor, but highlights the ideal circumstance.
Imam Qurtubi notes that charity from surplus wealth ensures the giver's financial stability isn't compromised, allowing for sustained giving. This principle prevents extravagance in charity that might lead the giver to become needy themselves.
The Virtue of Self-Sufficiency
"Whoever abstains from asking others... Allah will make him self-sufficient" contains a profound promise from Allah. Scholars interpret this as both a practical encouragement toward economic independence and a spiritual promise of divine provision.
Ibn al-Arabi explains that this abstention preserves human dignity and demonstrates tawakkul (reliance on Allah). The divine guarantee of self-sufficiency manifests through various means - increased provision, contentment with less, or opportunities for lawful earnings - all being forms of Allah's enrichment.
Practical Implementation
This hadith provides a comprehensive framework for wealth distribution: begin charity with immediate family, give from surplus without hardship, strive to be among the givers, and maintain dignity by avoiding unnecessary requests from others. The collective implementation of these principles ensures wealth circulation while preserving individual and communal dignity.