Hadith #1120

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights two important aspects that are disliked by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Firstly, it mentions the one who has long hopes, and secondly, it refers to those who engage in evil actions.

Let us begin by examining the key words in this Hadith. The Arabic word (tawil) "طَوِيلَ" is translated as "long" or "prolonged," while (amal) "أَمَلِ" means "hopes" or "expectations." The term (sayyia) "سَيِّءَ" signifies "evil" or "bad," and (amal) "عَمَلِ" refers to "actions" or "deeds."

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of having hope and expectations, but it should be balanced and directed towards the right path. In Surah Yusuf (12:87), we find the story of Prophet Yusuf (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) where he advises his fellow prisoners to have hope in Allah's mercy. This demonstrates that having hope is encouraged in Islam, as long as it is coupled with trust in Allah's decree and guidance.

However, the Hadith warns against having "long" or "prolonged" hopes. This refers to those who excessively rely on their own desires and ambitions, disregarding the limits set by Allah. Such individuals become attached to worldly aspirations and neglect their spiritual growth. Allah reminds us in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77) that worldly desires can distract us from the remembrance of Allah and lead us astray.

Furthermore, the Hadith mentions "evil actions." Evil actions are those that transgress the boundaries set by Allah and harm oneself or others. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of performing righteous deeds and abstaining from evil. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195), Allah commands us to do good deeds and not to engage in corruption or mischief. Evil actions are not only displeasing to Allah, but they also have negative consequences in this world and the hereafter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that Allah dislikes those who have unrealistic and prolonged hopes, as well as those who engage in evil actions. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to maintain a balance in their aspirations and actions. We should have hope in Allah's mercy and blessings, but it should be accompanied by sincere efforts to follow His guidance and avoid sinful behavior.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight. Through this Hadith, he reminds us to be mindful of our hopes and actions, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can strive towards righteousness and earn the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to the straight path and protect us from falling into the traps of prolonged hopes and evil actions.