Hakim bin Hizam said, "I asked Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) for something, and he gave me, and I asked him again and he gave me and said, 'O Hakim! This wealth is green and sweet (i.e. as tempting as fruits), and whoever takes it without greed then he is blessed in it, and whoever takes it with greediness, he is not blessed in it and he is like one who eats and never gets satisfied. The upper (i.e. giving) hand is better than the lower (i.e. taking) hand." Hakim added, "I said, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! By Him Who has sent you with the Truth I will never demand anything from anybody after you till I die." Afterwards Abu Bakr used to call Hakim to give him something but he refused to accept anything from him. Then `Umar called him to give him (something) but he refused. Then `Umar said, "O Muslims! I offered to him (i.e. Hakim) his share which Allah has ordained for him from this booty and he refuses to take it." Thus Hakim did not ask anybody for anything after the Prophet, till he died--may Allah bestow His mercy upon him.
Wills and Testaments (Wasaayaa)
Sahih al-Bukhari 2750 - Commentary by Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani
Hadith Context
This narration from Hakim bin Hizam demonstrates the Prophet's profound wisdom regarding wealth and its spiritual implications. Hakim, being the nephew of Khadijah (RA), had close access to the Messenger (ﷺ).
Wealth's Nature
The description "green and sweet" signifies wealth's inherent attractiveness and temptation, similar to ripe fruits that entice the eye. This metaphor warns believers about wealth's deceptive nature - pleasing to behold but potentially harmful to one's spiritual state if not handled with proper intention.
Blessing in Wealth
The distinction between blessed and unblessed wealth lies in the recipient's intention. Wealth acquired without greed brings barakah (blessing), meaning it suffices for one's needs and facilitates obedience to Allah. Greedy acquisition leads to perpetual dissatisfaction, like one who eats yet remains hungry.
Superiority of Giving Hand
The upper hand (giving) surpasses the lower hand (receiving) because giving reflects self-sufficiency, generosity, and emulation of Allah's attributes. The giver resembles the Divine Benefactor, while the receiver occupies the position of need.
Hakim's Resolution
Hakim's oath to never ask anyone after the Prophet demonstrates complete trust in Allah's provision. His refusal even from the Caliphs shows his understanding that true richness lies in contentment (qana'ah) rather than abundant possession.
Legal Implications
While refusing permissible wealth is praiseworthy for those seeking spiritual elevation, accepting one's rightful share (like booty) remains lawful. Umar's public declaration emphasized that Hakim's refusal was a personal spiritual choice, not a condemnation of the wealth's legitimacy.