Hadith #3909

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights three important aspects of human existence: the fleeting nature of this world, the inevitable progression from youth to old age, and the presence of doubt in uncertain situations. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

How close this world is to departure.

The Arabic word used here for "world" is "dunya," which refers to the temporal and material realm in which we currently reside. It is a reminder that this world is transient and ephemeral, and that our true abode lies in the hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris

Secondly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions the proximity of old age to youth. The word used for "old age" in Arabic is "shayb," which refers to the greying of hair and the physical signs of aging. This serves as a reminder that youth is a fleeting stage of life, and that we must utilize our time wisely before it inevitably gives way to old age. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 90:4-13)

And We have certainly created man to toil and struggle. Does he think that never will anyone overcome him? He says, 'I have spent wealth in abundance.' Does he think that no one has seen him? Have We not made for him two eyes? And a tongue and two lips? And have shown him the two ways? But he has not broken through the difficult pass. And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass? It is the freeing of a slave or feeding on a day of severe hunger

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) speaks of doubt in uncertain situations. The Arabic word used for "doubt" is "shakk," which refers to a state of uncertainty or indecision. This highlights the human tendency to question and doubt, especially in times of ambiguity or confusion. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 2:23)

And if you are in doubt about what We have revealed to Our servant, then produce a surah the like thereof and call upon your witnesses other than Allah, if you should be truthful

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims. It reminds us of the transient nature of this world, the passage of time from youth to old age, and the presence of doubt in uncertain situations. By reflecting on these realities, we are encouraged to prioritize the eternal over the temporary, make the most of our youth, and seek knowledge and guidance to overcome doubt. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate the challenges of this world and attain success in the hereafter.