His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad(aba), stated that the life of the Promised Messiah(as) provides numerous examples of generosity, mirroring the practices of the Holy Prophet(sa). Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad(aba) referred to this as "‘The Incredible Generosity of the Promised Messiah(as)’." Indeed, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad(aba) emphasized that there are many examples from the life of the Promised Messiah(as) exhibiting generosity, following the noble example of the Holy Prophet(sa). The Promised Messiah's(as) mother, Hazrat Chiragh Bibi, demonstrated this trait by preparing food for eight people when only four were expected, and by organizing funerals and shrouds for the impoverished. Her acts of kindness included preparing food for eight people if informed of a need for four, and diligently arranging funerals and shrouds for the poor, showcasing her deep compassion. The Promised Messiah(as) himself emphasized, "It is not good to close the door upon a beggar," and that "Allah is the Benefactor." He once stated, "When he had come all this way carrying those things, it was only right for him to take half."
Early Seeds of Compassion
Even in his youth, the Promised Messiah(as) distributed his income among widows and the needy, retaining only sufficient funds for his own sustenance. His commitment to generosity was evident early in his life. He would consistently distribute his income, ensuring widows and those in need received support, while keeping only what was essential for himself. When working in Sialkot, the Promised Messiah(as) instructed a man, who had been sent by his mother with clothes and other items, to take half of the provisions for himself. The Promised Messiah(as) said, "When he had come all this way carrying those things, it was only right for him to take half." This particular instruction to the man, who had traveled to deliver items from his mother, noted his belief in fairness and rewarding effort.
On one occasion, a beggar approached the Promised Messiah(as) and stated, "Allah is the Benefactor, and I request you to give me something." The Promised Messiah(as) responded by giving the beggar some money, acknowledging the sentiment that "Allah is the Benefactor." This interaction demonstrated his readiness to respond to pleas for help, especially when framed with such humility. Another incident involved a person who closed a door upon a beggar. The Promised Messiah(as) reportedly told that individual to return home and retrieve something to offer the beggar, emphasizing, "It is not good to close the door upon a beggar." These accounts illustrate the Promised Messiah's(as) consistent practice of compassion and giving throughout his life, teaching others by example the importance of open-heartedness.
Acts of Giving and Support
The Promised Messiah(as) once provided aid to a man who had approached him for assistance after congregational prayers. When the man returned a second time to ask for help, the Promised Messiah(as) gave him an amount directly from his pocket. This immediate and personal response showed his commitment to easing the burdens of those who sought his help. In another instance, he donated 200 rupees for a project aimed at constructing a well in the forest, intended to provide ease for travelers. This act of foresight and public service aimed to benefit a wide range of people, offering relief to those journeying through the wilderness. His generosity extended even to those who had opposed him; after a man who had debated with him and used unbecoming language later sent a note requesting financial help, the Promised Messiah(as) sent him 15 rupees. This remarkable act of benevolence towards an adversary showcased his profound capacity for forgiveness and charity, rising above personal slights.
On one occasion, a man complimented the Promised Messiah's(as) hat, prompting him to remove it and give it to the man. This spontaneous act of giving, even of a personal item, reflected his selfless nature. Even during a period of severe illness, the Promised Messiah(as) responded to a request by sending both a medical prescription and one of his own coats. His dedication to assisting others transcended his own physical discomfort, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to their well-being. When funds sent for commemorating occasions in Qadian proved insufficient for the large number of attendees, the Promised Messiah(as) would personally make up the shortfall from his own resources. This ensured that no guest would be left wanting, reflecting his deep sense of responsibility and hospitality towards everyone present.
A Legacy of Empathy
A known instance of the Promised Messiah's(as) compassion involved a beggar who would frequently call out, "Ghulam Ahmad, I need a rupee." The Promised Messiah(as) would often respond by smiling and providing money, particularly if he had learned that someone had scolded the beggar. This recurring interaction showed his consistent approach to aiding those in need, often with a gentle smile and a willingness to provide comfort. His actions reflected a broader personal philosophy of generosity. The Promised Messiah(as) had previously stated, "It is not good to close the door upon a beggar," emphasizing the importance of open-heartedness and practical assistance. He also acknowledged the sentiment that "Allah is the Benefactor" when a beggar approached him with the plea, "Allah is the Benefactor, and I request you to give me something." In an earlier situation where a man had carried items for him, the Promised Messiah(as) insisted that the man take half of the provisions, remarking, "When he had come all this way carrying those things, it was only right for him to take half." These examples illustrate his practical application of empathy and charity in daily life, establishing a profound legacy of compassion for all.
