Anas said that Abu Talha was the one among the Ansar who possessed most palm trees, the property he prized most being Bairaha’ which was opposite the mosque and was often entered by God’s messenger who drank some of the sweet water it contained. When this verse came down, “You will never attain righteousness till you give freely of what you love,”* Abu Talha got up and going to God's messenger said, “Messenger of God, God says, ‘You will never attain righteousness till you give freely of what you love,' and my property which I prize most is Bairaha’, so I give it as sadaqa to God most high from whom I hope for reward for the act of righteousness and the treasure relating to it;** so apply it, messenger of God, to whatever purpose God shows you.” He replied, “Bravo! That is profitable property. I have heard what you said, and I think you should apply it to your nearest relatives.” Abu Talha told God’s messenger he would do so, and divided it among his nearest relatives and his cousins on his father’s side. (Bukhari and Muslim.)* Quran 3:92** The Arabic is dhukhraha, which conveys the idea of this good deed being stored up with God who will give a reward for it in the next world
Commentary on Hadith from Mishkat al-Masabih 1945
This narration from Anas ibn Malik concerning Abu Talha's charity exemplifies the profound understanding of the Companions regarding Quranic injunctions. When Allah revealed "You will never attain righteousness till you give freely of what you love" (Quran 3:92), Abu Talha immediately recognized its spiritual significance and acted with remarkable swiftness.
The Nature of True Charity
The scholars explain that the highest form of charity (sadaqa) involves giving what one genuinely cherishes, not merely what is surplus or unwanted. Abu Talha's prized possession, Bairaha', represented his deepest attachment, making its donation the ultimate test of sincerity.
His declaration "I give it as sadaqa to God most high from whom I hope for reward" demonstrates proper intention (niyyah) - seeking only divine pleasure rather than worldly recognition.
The Prophet's Guidance in Distribution
The Prophet's response "Bravo! That is profitable property" indicates that charity from beloved possessions yields greater spiritual returns. His directive to give to nearest relatives establishes the hierarchy in charitable distribution.
Classical scholars note this prioritization: first to relatives, then neighbors, then the broader community. This maintains family bonds while fulfilling religious obligations.
Spiritual Lessons
This incident teaches that true righteousness requires sacrificing worldly attachments. The term "dhukhraha" signifies the eternal reward stored with Allah, reminding believers that charitable acts are spiritual investments for the hereafter.
The immediate compliance of Abu Talha without hesitation serves as a model for how Muslims should respond to divine commandments - with prompt action and complete submission.