Hadith #8151

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the astonishment he felt towards the negligence of those who possess intellect and wisdom. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, was surprised by the lack of attention given by such individuals to seeking provisions and preparing for the Hereafter.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (ghaflah) "غَفْلَةِ" refers to negligence, heedlessness, or unawareness. It signifies a state of being oblivious to the true purpose of life and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. (dhu al-albab) "ذَوِى الألْبابِ" refers to those who possess intellect, wisdom, and understanding. These individuals have the capacity to comprehend the reality of life and make informed decisions.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Taghabun (64:9),

The Day when every soul will find what it has done of good present [before it] and what it has done of evil, it will wish that between itself and that [evil] was a great distance. And Allah warns you of Himself, and Allah is Kind to [His] servants.

This verse emphasizes the importance of preparing for the Day of Judgment, where each individual will be held accountable for their actions. The intelligent ones should not be negligent in seeking provisions for the Hereafter, as they will regret their negligence when faced with the consequences of their deeds.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of preparing for the Hereafter is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes that the best provision for the journey of life is piety and consciousness of Allah. It is the intelligent ones who understand the true value of Taqwa and prioritize it in their lives.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) expresses his surprise at the negligence of those who possess intellect and wisdom because he recognizes the consequences of such negligence. By neglecting to seek provisions for the Hereafter, individuals risk losing the eternal rewards and blessings that await them. They fail to realize that this worldly life is temporary, and the true success lies in preparing for the everlasting life in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) astonishment serves as a wake-up call for all Muslims, regardless of their sect. It reminds us to reflect upon our priorities and ensure that we are not neglecting the pursuit of provisions for the Hereafter. We must utilize our intellect and wisdom to seek knowledge, perform good deeds, and cultivate a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This involves fulfilling our religious obligations, engaging in acts of worship, and striving to attain piety in all aspects of our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to not be negligent in seeking provisions for the Hereafter. It highlights the astonishment of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) towards the lack of attention given by intelligent individuals to this crucial aspect of life. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of preparing for the Hereafter, we are reminded of the consequences of negligence and the significance of prioritizing piety in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to seek provisions for the Hereafter and to lead a life that pleases Him.