Abu Talha was the richest man in Medina amongst the Ansar and Beeruha' (garden) was the most beloved of his property, and it was situated opposite the mosque (of the Prophet.). Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) used to enter it and drink from its sweet water. When the following Divine Verse were revealed: 'you will not attain righteousness till you spend in charity of the things you love' (3.92), Abu Talha got up in front of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) and said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! Allah says in His Book, 'You will not attain righteousness unless you spend (in charity) that which you love,' and verily, the most beloved to me of my property is Beeruha (garden), so I give it in charity and hope for its reward from Allah. O Allah's Apostle! Spend it wherever you like." Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) appreciated that and said, "That is perishable wealth, that is perishable wealth. I have heard what you have said; I suggest you to distribute it among your relatives." Abu Talha said, "I will do so, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)." So, Abu Talha distributed it among his relatives and cousins. The sub-narrator (Malik) said: The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "That is a profitable wealth," instead of "perishable wealth".
Representation, Authorization, Business by Proxy - Sahih al-Bukhari 2318
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari demonstrates the profound Islamic principle of sincere charity and the delegation of authority in managing charitable affairs. Abu Talha's immediate response to Quranic revelation exemplifies perfect faith and submission.
Scholarly Commentary on the Hadith
The garden "Beeruha" being opposite the mosque indicates its prime location and maximum value, making Abu Talha's sacrifice even more significant. His declaration "Spend it wherever you like" shows complete trust in the Prophet's judgment.
The Prophet's response "That is perishable/profitable wealth" contains deep wisdom. Perishable refers to worldly possessions that fade, while profitable indicates the eternal reward stored with Allah. This dual understanding reflects the temporary nature of worldly wealth versus the permanent benefit of charitable deeds.
The Prophet's guidance to distribute among relatives prioritizes maintaining family ties (silat ar-rahm), showing that charity begins with those closest. This demonstrates the comprehensive nature of Islamic social welfare.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This hadith establishes the permissibility of appointing representatives for charitable distribution. The Prophet's acceptance of Abu Talha's authorization shows the validity of proxy arrangements in Islamic transactions.
The immediate implementation of Quranic commandments reflects the Companions' perfect adherence to revelation. Abu Talha didn't delay or seek alternatives but offered his most beloved possession.
The variation in wording ("perishable" vs "profitable") demonstrates how different narrations complement rather than contradict, each revealing aspects of divine wisdom regarding worldly possessions and spiritual investment.