the Messenger of Allah said: "None gives charity from Tayyib - and Allah does not accept but Tayyib - but that Ar-Rahman accepts it with His Right (Hand). Even if it is a date, it is nurtured in the Hand of Ar-Rahman until it is greater than a mountain, just as one of you nurtures his foal or young camel."
Hadith Text & Reference
The Messenger of Allah said: "None gives charity from Tayyib - and Allah does not accept but Tayyib - but that Ar-Rahman accepts it with His Right (Hand). Even if it is a date, it is nurtured in the Hand of Ar-Rahman until it is greater than a mountain, just as one of you nurtures his foal or young camel."
Source: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 661 | The Book on Zakat
Meaning of "Tayyib"
Tayyib refers to what is pure, wholesome, lawful, and earned through permissible means. Allah only accepts charity that comes from lawful (halal) sources, not from usurped property or ill-gotten wealth.
The condition of purity applies both to the source of wealth and the intention behind giving - it must be solely for Allah's pleasure, not for show or worldly gain.
Divine Acceptance with the Right Hand
Allah's acceptance "with His Right Hand" signifies special honor, care, and immediate acceptance without delay. The Right Hand symbolizes honor and preference in Arabic culture.
This imagery demonstrates Allah's immense generosity and the high status of charitable deeds performed with sincerity from pure wealth.
Multiplication of Reward
The nurturing of a date until it becomes greater than a mountain illustrates how Allah multiplies the reward of even small charities beyond human comprehension.
Just as a small foal grows into a mighty camel through careful nurturing, so does a small charity grow in divine estimation when given with purity of wealth and intention.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam at-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan sahih (good and authentic). Scholars emphasize that this narration encourages Muslims to give charity no matter how small, provided it comes from lawful sources.
The hadith also teaches about Allah's attribute of mercy (Ar-Rahman) and how He honors those who give charity sincerely, transforming their small deeds into immense rewards in the Hereafter.