Hadith #595

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 our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

إجعَلْ جِدَّكَ لإعدادِ الجَوابِ لِيَومِ المَسْئَلَةِ والحساب۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of working diligently and earnestly in preparing the answers for the Day of Questioning and Reckoning.

Let us delve into the key words and their meanings in this Hadith. The word (ij'al) "إجعَلْ" means to make or to set. It implies a command to actively engage in an action. (jiddak) "جِدَّكَ" refers to one's utmost effort, seriousness, and dedication. It signifies the need to exert oneself wholeheartedly. (i'dad) "إعدادِ" means preparation or readiness. It implies being well-prepared and equipped. (al-jawab) "الجَوابِ" refers to the answers or responses. It signifies the importance of having the correct and satisfactory answers. (liyawm al-masa'lah wa al-hisab) "لِيَومِ المَسْئَلَةِ والحساب" translates to

for the Day of Questioning and Reckoning.

It refers to the Day of Judgment when every individual will be held accountable for their actions.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us about the Day of Judgment and the importance of being prepared for it. In Surah Al-Hajj, Allah says, (Quran 22:1-2)

O mankind, fear your Lord. Indeed, the convulsion of the [final] Hour is a terrible thing. On the Day you see it every nursing mother will be distracted from that [child] she was nursing, and every pregnant woman will abort her pregnancy, and you will see the people [appearing] intoxicated while they are not intoxicated; but the punishment of Allah is severe.

This ayah highlights the severity and magnitude of the Day of Judgment. It serves as a reminder that on that day, people will be so overwhelmed by the events unfolding that even the most natural instincts, such as a mother's care for her child, will be forgotten. It emphasizes the need to be prepared for this day, both spiritually and intellectually.

Another verse that sheds light on the importance of preparing for the Day of Questioning is found in Surah Al-Isra. Allah says, (Quran 16:89)

And [warn of] the Day when We will resurrect from every nation a witness against them from themselves. And We will bring you, [O Muhammad], as a witness against these. And We have sent down to you the Book as clarification for all things and as guidance and mercy and good tidings for the Muslims.

This verse highlights the fact that every individual will be held accountable for their actions, and witnesses will be brought forth from their own communities. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) will also be a witness against his Ummah. This emphasizes the need to prepare ourselves by seeking knowledge, understanding the teachings of Islam, and living our lives in accordance with the guidance of the Quran and the Sunnah.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The Imam urges us to work diligently and earnestly in preparing the answers for the Day of Questioning and Reckoning. This entails acquiring knowledge, understanding the teachings of Islam, and implementing them in our lives. It requires us to reflect upon our actions, seek forgiveness for our shortcomings, and strive for self-improvement.

By preparing ourselves for the Day of Judgment, we are not only ensuring our own salvation but also setting an example for others. Our dedication to seeking knowledge and living a righteous life can inspire those around us and encourage them to do the same. It is through our actions and preparedness that we can contribute positively to society and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of working diligently and earnestly in preparing the answers for the Day of Questioning and Reckoning. It calls upon us to seek knowledge, understand the teachings of Islam, and implement them in our lives. By doing so, we not only ensure our own salvation but also inspire others to follow the path of righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom, knowledge, and dedication to prepare ourselves for the Day of Judgment.