Sahih al-Bukhari 5373
Narrated Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Give food to the hungry, pay a visit to the sick and release (set free) the one in captivity (by paying his ransom).

This statement by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasizes the importance of performing acts of kindness and mercy towards those in need. The meaning of this saying can be understood as follows:

1. Giving food to the hungry: This highlights the significance of providing sustenance and support to those who are in a state of hunger and are in need of nourishment. It encourages believers to be charitable and compassionate by sharing their resources with those less fortunate.
2. Paying a visit to the sick: This emphasizes the importance of showing care and concern for individuals who are unwell or suffering from illness. Visiting the sick not only provides them with emotional support but also reminds believers of the value of empathy and offering assistance to those in need.
3. Releasing the one in captivity: This refers to the act of liberating or setting free individuals who are unjustly imprisoned or held captive. It encourages believers to work towards justice and freedom for those who have been wrongfully detained. It also signifies the importance of advocating for the rights and dignity of all people.

Overall, this hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively engage in acts of charity, compassion, and social responsibility. It encourages them to contribute positively to society by fulfilling the needs of the hungry, providing comfort to the sick, and working towards the freedom of those unjustly held captive.

Qur’anic Reference:

📖Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9)
“And they give food, in spite of love for it, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], ‘We feed you only for the sake of Allah. We do not seek from you reward or thanks.’”

🔹 This verse directly corresponds with the hadith by emphasizing feeding the hungry, helping the needy, and even providing for captives. It highlights the sincerity of giving for Allah’s sake alone, without expecting anything in return.

📖Surah Al-Balad (90:13-16)
“It is the freeing of a slave, or feeding on a day of severe hunger, an orphan of near relationship, or a needy person in misery.”

🔹 This verse reiterates the importance of freeing captives and feeding the poor as acts of righteousness and social responsibility.

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Conclusion:

This hadith, along with its corresponding Quranic verses, teaches that acts of kindness such as feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, and freeing captives are highly rewarded in Islam. It emphasizes that true righteousness lies in selflessness, compassion, and service to humanity.