Hadith #7697

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of persisting in seizing the opportunity to perform actions that have everlasting rewards. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (Ightinam) "اغْتِنامِ", which means to seize or take advantage of. It implies actively and diligently making use of an opportunity. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging Muslims to persist in seizing the opportunity to perform actions that have eternal rewards, as their rewards will never perish.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46):

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on enduring good deeds. It reminds us that while material wealth and worldly achievements may bring temporary satisfaction, they do not compare to the everlasting rewards of righteous actions in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77):

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse encourages believers to strive for the eternal abode in the Hereafter while not neglecting their responsibilities in this world. It emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) without falling into corruption or neglecting worldly obligations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that they should not be complacent or negligent in their pursuit of righteous actions. It urges them to be proactive and persistent in seizing the opportunity to perform deeds that have everlasting rewards. This could include acts of worship such as prayer, fasting, giving charity, seeking knowledge, and engaging in acts of kindness and compassion towards others.

By persisting in these actions, Muslims not only accumulate rewards in this life but also secure eternal rewards in the Hereafter. This Hadith motivates Muslims to continuously strive for excellence in their deeds, knowing that their efforts will be rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of heeding Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice are profound. It leads to a life of purpose and meaning, where every action is performed with the intention of seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It instills a sense of responsibility and accountability, as Muslims realize that their actions have eternal consequences.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of seizing every opportunity to perform righteous actions. We should not delay or procrastinate in doing good, as time is fleeting and the rewards of such actions are everlasting. Let us strive to be like Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and unwavering commitment to righteousness, and persist in seizing the opportunity to perform actions that have eternal rewards. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to do so.