Hadith #3630

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of this world and the deceptive allure it holds. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of the words used in this Hadith to gain a better understanding.

The word (dar) "دارُ" refers to a dwelling or abode, while (shukhoos) "شُخُوص" signifies departure or separation. Thus, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that this world is a temporary place where we are only passing through. It is not our final destination, but rather a temporary abode that we must eventually leave behind.

The word (tanghees) "تَنْغيص" means discomfort or unease. This world is a place of trials and tribulations, where we face hardships and challenges. It is not a place of eternal comfort and tranquility. The difficulties we encounter in this world serve as a reminder that our true abode lies in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes the residents of this world as (dhaa'in) "ظاعِنٌ" and (ba'in) "بائِنٌ". The term (dhaa'in) "ظاعِنٌ" refers to someone who has to depart, indicating that every individual residing in this world will eventually leave it. The word (ba'in) "بائِنٌ" means dweller or inhabitant, implying that even those who consider this world their permanent home will eventually be forced to leave it.

The glitter and allure of this world are described as (khalib) "خالِبٌ" and (kaadhib) "كاذِبٌ". The word (khalib) "خالِبٌ" means deceptive or illusory, highlighting the fact that the attractions and pleasures of this world are temporary and fleeting. They may appear enticing, but they do not provide lasting satisfaction. Similarly, the word (kaadhib) "كاذِبٌ" means untrue or false, indicating that the promises and claims made by this world are ultimately empty and deceitful.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that the wealth and valuables of this world are (mahroobah) "مَحرُوبَةٌ" and (masloobah) "مَسْلُوبَةٌ", meaning looted and plundered. This highlights the transient nature of material possessions and the fact that they can be taken away from us at any moment. Our attachment to worldly wealth and possessions should be tempered by the understanding that they are not permanent or truly ours.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by warning us about the nature of this world. He describes it as (mutasaddiyatul 'atun) "المُتَصَدِّيَةُ العَتُونُ", meaning it attracts and then turns away. This world entices us with its temporary pleasures and distractions, but it ultimately disappoints and leaves us unfulfilled. It is (jalimahul haroon) "الجامِحَةُ الحَرُونُ", unruly and stubborn, refusing to conform to our desires and expectations. Finally, it is (maniyatul kha'un) "المانِيَةُ الخَؤُنُ", cheating and betraying, as it promises us happiness and fulfillment but fails to deliver on its promises.

To further understand the teachings of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20) that the life of this world is but a fleeting enjoyment, and the Hereafter is the true abode of everlasting happiness. Similarly, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us that the life of this world is nothing but a deceiving enjoyment.

The teachings of this Hadith serve as a powerful reminder for Muslims to not become overly attached to the transient pleasures and distractions of this world. We should strive to maintain a balanced perspective, recognizing that this world is temporary and our true abode lies in the Hereafter. By focusing on our spiritual growth and preparing for the eternal life to come, we can navigate the challenges and trials of this world with patience and perseverance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides profound insights into the nature of this world and the importance of prioritizing our spiritual journey. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to not be deceived by the temporary allure of this world, but rather to focus on building a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life to come. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to navigate this world with sincerity and righteousness.