Hadith #2003

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "فَقْدُ الأحِبَّةِ غُرْبَةٌ۔" which translates to

Losing a loved one leads to forlornness.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the deep emotional impact of losing someone we hold dear to our hearts.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (faqdu) "فَقْدُ" refers to the act of losing or being deprived of something or someone. It signifies the absence or separation from a beloved individual. The word (al-ahibbah) "الأحِبَّةِ" is derived from the root word (hubb) "حَبّ", which means love. It refers to those individuals who are dear to us, who hold a special place in our hearts. Finally, the word (ghurbah) "غُرْبَةٌ" denotes a sense of loneliness, estrangement, or feeling lost.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) acknowledges the pain and sorrow that comes with losing a loved one. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 154, Allah says:

And do not say about those who are killed in the way of Allah, 'They are dead.' Rather, they are alive, but you perceive [it] not.

This verse reminds us that although physically separated from us, our loved ones who have passed away are still alive in the realm of the unseen. While we may not perceive their existence, they continue to exist in a different form.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Zumar, verse 30, Allah states:

Indeed, you will die, and indeed, they will die.

This verse emphasizes the inevitability of death for every soul. It serves as a reminder that loss and separation are an integral part of the human experience. We are all destined to depart from this world, leaving behind loved ones who will mourn our absence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the emotional toll that losing a loved one takes on an individual. When we lose someone who holds a special place in our hearts, we experience a profound sense of grief, loneliness, and longing. The void left by their absence can be overwhelming, leading to a state of forlornness.

However, it is crucial to remember that Islam provides solace and guidance during times of loss. The Quran assures us that our loved ones who have passed away are still alive in the presence of Allah. They continue to exist in a different realm, and their souls are at peace. As Muslims, we find comfort in knowing that death is not the end, but rather a transition to the eternal life.

Moreover, the loss of a loved one can serve as a reminder of the transient nature of this worldly life. It prompts us to reflect upon our own mortality and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. It motivates us to prioritize our relationships, cherish our loved ones, and strive for righteousness in order to reunite with them in the eternal abode.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the profound emotional impact of losing a loved one. It serves as a reminder of the pain and loneliness that accompanies such a loss. However, as Muslims, we find solace in the teachings of the Quran, which assure us of the continued existence of our loved ones in the realm of the unseen. This Hadith also motivates us to reflect upon our own mortality and strive for righteousness, so that we may be reunited with our loved ones in the eternal abode. May Allah grant us patience and strength during times of loss, and may He reunite us with our loved ones in Jannah.