ABSTRACT
Benevolence (nīkuī) and usefulness (fā’īda) come from one thing to another by means of transaction (mu‘āmalat) or by generosity. A transaction takes place in an exchange where something is given and something is received. What is received is not always concrete since it can be a good name (nīkū), joy ( shādi), or a prayer (du‘ā’), or gratitude. In short, there is an exchange for that for which there is a desire. And whatever is exchangeable ‘iwaḍī) is exchanged. Though the object of a transaction is called and recognized by the vulgar as merchandise which is exchanged with another merchandise, a good name or gratitude are not considered exchangeable in a transaction. A wise man knows, however, that whatever is desired has utility. Generosity is that which is not the result of an exchange, of recompense, or of a transaction. From the will which directs generosity a good thing results, while no ulterior intention ( gharaḍī) is associated with it. Since the Necessary Existent acts in this manner, Its act is characterized by absolute generosity (jūd-i maḥḍ).
