Story No. 237 – Hadhrat Ali Murtaza (as) as a guest of Aqeel ibn Abi Talib

Hadhrat Ali Murtaza’s (as) older brother Aqeel was getting some financial aid from the State Treasury (Baitul Mal) because of his poverty. He thought that he was not getting enough money from the State Treasury, so one day he invited his brother Hadhrat Ali Murtaza (as) Caliph (Khalifah) of the time for lunch.

When they finished eating, Aqeel explained to his brother and said, “Look my brother, the aid that I am getting from the State Treasury is not sufficient. Could you please increase little bit more so that I can live little bit comfortably?”

Hadhrat Ali Murtaza (as): If what you say is true, then how could you afford to invite me for lunch today?

Aqeel ibn Abi Talib: I saved bit by bit for a few days and then I invited you.

Hadhrat Ali Murtaza (as): This means that you are still getting that little bit extra from which you could save. So really speaking, that extras should be cut off and given to someone more needy.

Aqeel ibn Abi Talib: Oh no, please don’t do that. I will try to survive on what I get and won’t complain any more.