The Prophet (ﷺ) was the most generous person, and he used to become more so (generous) particularly in the month of Ramadan because Gabriel used to meet him every night of the month of Ramadan till it elapsed. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) used to recite the Qur'an for him. When Gabriel met him, he used to become more generous than the fast wind in doing good.
Virtues of the Qur'an - Sahih al-Bukhari 4997
This narration from the Sahih al-Bukhari collection highlights the profound connection between the Prophet's generosity, Ramadan, and his engagement with the Qur'an through the angel Gabriel.
The Excellence of Generosity
The Prophet's natural disposition was one of extreme generosity, which represents the pinnacle of noble character (makārim al-akhlāq). His generosity was not merely material but encompassed knowledge, time, compassion, and spiritual guidance.
The comparison to "the fast wind" indicates that his giving was swift, abundant, and far-reaching, without hesitation or calculation, reflecting complete trust in Allah's provision.
Ramadan's Spiritual Transformation
The intensification of generosity during Ramadan demonstrates how spiritual practices transform character. Fasting cultivates self-restraint which naturally leads to increased compassion and generosity toward others.
The nightly meetings with Gabriel represent the spiritual ascent (mi'rāj) available to believers during Ramadan through increased devotion and Qur'anic recitation.
The Qur'an's Living Connection
The Prophet's recitation to Gabriel signifies the ongoing revelation and verification of the Qur'an. This nightly review ensured the perfect preservation of the divine text.
The combination of Qur'anic recitation and angelic companionship produced this heightened state of generosity, showing how divine revelation transforms human character when received with proper spiritual preparation.
Practical Implications
This hadith teaches Muslims to increase all forms of generosity during Ramadan - not just financial charity but also kindness, forgiveness, and sharing knowledge.
It establishes the Sunnah of increased Qur'anic engagement during Ramadan, as the divine word has the power to purify hearts and elevate character when contemplated and implemented.