Hadith #1471

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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) emphasizes the importance of taking the initiative to engage in righteous actions and to be mindful of the suddenness of death. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, encourages Muslims to be proactive in their pursuit of good deeds and to be aware of the unpredictability of death.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (badiru) "بادِرُوا" means "take the initiative" or "be proactive." It implies the urgency and importance of not delaying in performing righteous deeds. The word (al-amal) "العَمَلَ" refers to actions or deeds. It encompasses all acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, charity, and acts of kindness towards others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then advises us to (khaafu baghtat al-ajal) "خَافُوا بَغْتَةَ الأجَلِ", which means

fear the suddenness of death.

This phrase serves as a reminder that death can come unexpectedly, without any prior warning. It urges us to be conscious of our mortality and to make the most of our time in this world by engaging in righteous actions.

The Hadith concludes with the statement, (tudriku afdala al-amal) "تُدْرِكُوا أفْضَلَ الأمَلِ", which can be translated as

you will realize the greatest hope.

This phrase highlights the profound consequences and rewards that await those who take the initiative to perform good deeds and remain mindful of the fleeting nature of life.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (Quran 103:1-3)

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This Quranic verse echoes the message of the Hadith, emphasizing the importance of taking the initiative to engage in righteous actions. It reminds us that time is a valuable resource, and if not utilized wisely, it can lead to loss and regret. The verse also highlights the significance of faith, good deeds, and mutual encouragement towards truth and patience.

Another relevant verse is found in Surah Al-Mulk, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (Quran 67:1-2)

Blessed is He in whose hand is the dominion, and He is over all things competent - [He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has created life and death as a test for us. It emphasizes the importance of striving to excel in righteous deeds, as it is through our actions that we are ultimately judged. It is by taking the initiative to engage in good deeds that we can attain the greatest hope, the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we are reminded of the transient nature of life and the urgency to seize every opportunity to engage in righteous actions. By taking the initiative to perform good deeds and being mindful of the suddenness of death, we can attain the greatest hope and secure a successful outcome in the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to act upon this advice and make the most of our time in this world. May He bless us with the strength to be proactive in our pursuit of righteousness and to be constantly aware of the fleeting nature of life. And may He grant us the ultimate success in the Hereafter.