Exchange of Gifts

Written by: Fadilat al-Sheikh Hafiz Abdul Sattar Al-Hammad (Hafidhahullah)
Arabic Text:

كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَقْبَلُ الْهَدِيَّةَ، وَيُثِيبُ عَلَيْهَا

"The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to accept gifts and would also give something in return."

[Sahih Bukhari, Al-Hibah wa Fadluha wa al-Tahridh 'Alayha: 2585]

Key Points:

Definition of a Gift:
A gift is a form of offering given to bring joy to someone and to express affection or a bond of goodwill. However, it should be given with the intention of seeking Allah’s pleasure.
  • When given to a child, it reflects affection and kindness.
  • When presented to a friend, it strengthens love and friendship.
  • When offered to an elder, it symbolizes respect and honor.
Unfortunately, the exchange of gifts has diminished in this Ummah, even though it is a means of removing resentment and fostering love between hearts.

The Virtue of Giving Gifts:
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
"Exchange gifts with one another, as it removes resentment from the hearts."
[Tirmidhi, Al-Wala’: 2130]

Undoubtedly, fulfilling the ethics of good character requires such practices, but unfortunately, this noble Sunnah has become rare in our times.

Gratitude for Gifts:
It is essential to express gratitude to the gift-giver. As the Prophet ﷺ mentioned:
"Whoever does not thank people has not thanked Allah."
[Musnad Ahmad, Vol. 2, Pg. 258]

Prohibition of Taking Back Gifts:
It is important to remember that taking back a gift once given is highly discouraged. The Prophet ﷺ likened such behavior to:
"A person who gives a gift and then takes it back is like a dog that eats something, vomits it, and then licks it back."
[Abu Dawood, Al-Buyoo’: 3539]

Conclusion:

The exchange of gifts is a beautiful Sunnah that fosters love, removes enmity, and strengthens relationships. It reflects good character and earns Allah’s pleasure. May Allah grant us the ability to revive this Sunnah and practice it with sincerity.
 
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