"A man came to the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and asked him to give him a gift, so the Prophet said (Allah bless him and give him peace): 'I have nothing at my disposal, but purchase at my expense, and when something comes to me, I will settle the debt.’ 'Umar therefore said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, I have given it to him, so Allah has not burdened you with what is beyond your means!’ The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) disapproved of what 'Umar said, whereupon a man among the Ansar said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, give, and do not fear any impoverishment from the Lord of the Throne!’ Allah’s Messenger smiled (Allah bless him and give him peace), and it was clear from the look on his face that he was pleased with the Ansari’s words. And he said: ‘This is what I have been commanded to do!'”
The Incident of Generosity
This narration from Ash-Shama'il Al-Muhammadiyah 354 demonstrates the Prophet's unwavering commitment to giving despite personal circumstances. When a petitioner approached him while he possessed nothing, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) didn't refuse but promised future provision through credit.
Umar's Practical Concern
Sayyidina Umar's intervention reflects worldly wisdom - seeking to protect the Prophet from financial burden. His statement "Allah has not burdened you with what is beyond your means" represents the cautious approach many take toward charity.
The Ansari's Spiritual Insight
The Ansari's profound declaration "give, and do not fear any impoverishment from the Lord of the Throne" captures the essence of tawakkul (reliance on Allah). This demonstrates complete faith in Allah's promise to replace what is given in His cause.
Divine Confirmation
The Prophet's smile and pleased countenance upon hearing the Ansari's words, followed by his declaration "This is what I have been commanded to do" confirms that unlimited generosity while trusting Allah's provision is the established sunnah and divine command.
Scholarly Commentary
From "Noble Character And Habits Of Sayyidina Rasoolullah" by Imam At-Tirmidhi: This hadith teaches that true generosity transcends material possession. The Prophet's method shows that when one cannot give immediately, they should still commit to giving. The different responses illustrate the balance between practical wisdom and complete trust in Allah's provision, with the latter being the higher spiritual station.