Charity does not decrease wealth, no one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status.
The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship
Sahih Muslim 2588
Hadith Text
Charity does not decrease wealth, no one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status.
Commentary on Charity and Wealth
Worldly perception suggests charity diminishes wealth, but divine wisdom reveals otherwise. Allah replaces what is spent with barakah (blessing) in remaining wealth and stores greater reward in the Hereafter. The Prophet (peace be upon him) affirmed: "Wealth is not diminished by charity" - meaning its spiritual value increases while its material decrease is compensated by divine blessings.
Commentary on Forgiveness and Honor
Forgiveness demonstrates strength of character and trust in Allah's justice. When one suppresses anger and forgives for Allah's sake, the Almighty elevates their station in creation's eyes and grants them inner dignity. This reflects the divine attribute al-Karīm (The Most Generous) who honors those who embody His qualities.
Commentary on Humility and Elevation
True humility before Allah - not self-degradation - involves recognizing one's dependence on the Creator. This tawāḍuʿ (humility) attracts divine mercy, as Allah elevates those who lower themselves sincerely for Him. The spiritual elevation may manifest in increased respect among people, inner peace, or higher ranks in Paradise.
Scholarly Insights
Imam Nawawi notes this hadith encourages three noble traits: generosity despite fear of poverty, forgiveness when entitled to retaliation, and humility instead of arrogance. These appear as losses to the nafs (ego) but are actually means of gaining Allah's pleasure and eternal rewards.