Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Abu Talhah (May Allah be pleased with him) was the richest among the Ansar of Al-Madinah and possessed the largest property; and among his possessions what he loved most was his garden known as Bairuha which was opposite the mosque, and Messenger of Allah (PBUH) often visited it and drank from its fresh water. When this ayah was revealed: "By no means shall you attain Al-Birr (piety, righteousness - here it means Allahs reward, i.e., Jannah), unless you spend (in Allahs Cause) of that which you love," (3:92). Abu Talhah came to Messenger of Allah (PBUH), and said: "Allah says in His Book: `By no means shall you attain Al-Birr, unless you spend (in Allahs Cause) of that which you love, and the dearest of my property is Bairuha so I have given it as Sadaqah (charity) for Allahs sake, and I anticipate its reward with Him; so spend it, O Messenger of Allah, as Allah guides you". Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Well-done! That is profitable property. I have heard what you have said, but I think you should spend it on your nearest relatives." So Abu Talhah distributed it among his nearest relatives and cousins.[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary:
This Hadith has already been mentioned in the chapter which deals with the merits of spending of what one loves best in the way of Allah. It has been repeated here in support of benevolence to the relatives. Its repetition makes it clear that while spending in the way of Allah, one should always first of all consider his relatives and help those of them who deserve assistance. After fulfilling their needs, if anything remains then it can be given to others.
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