Hadith #494

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الآجالُ تَقْطَعُ الآمالَ" which translates to

Death cuts hopes short.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inevitable reality of death and its impact on our aspirations and desires.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (al-ajal) "الآجالُ" refers to the appointed time or term, which in this context signifies death. It is a reminder that every soul has a predetermined time of departure from this world. The word (taqta'u) "تَقْطَعُ" means to sever or cut off, emphasizing the abruptness and finality of death. And finally, the word (al-amal) "الآمالَ" refers to hopes, ambitions, and aspirations that we have in this worldly life.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-An'am, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 21:35)

Every soul will taste death. And We test you with evil and with good as trial; and to Us you will be returned.

This verse reminds us that death is an inevitable reality that every soul will face. It serves as a test for us, as we are confronted with both trials and blessings in this life.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 23:99-100)

Until, when death comes to one of them, he says, 'My Lord, send me back that I might do righteousness in that which I left behind.' No! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.

This verse highlights the regret that some individuals may experience at the moment of death, wishing for more time to rectify their actions and fulfill their aspirations. However, it emphasizes that this desire is futile, as there is a barrier between this world and the Hereafter.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that death is a reminder of the temporary nature of this worldly life. It serves as a wake-up call for us to prioritize our actions and aspirations, as we do not know when our appointed time will come. It compels us to reflect on the purpose of our existence and strive for righteousness in every aspect of our lives.

This Hadith also serves as a motivation for us to make the most of our time in this world. It urges us to seize every opportunity to do good, to seek knowledge, to strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and to contribute positively to society. It reminds us to be mindful of our intentions and actions, as they will ultimately determine our fate in the Hereafter.

Moreover, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries profound consequences for our lives. It encourages us to let go of worldly attachments and focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. It reminds us that our hopes and aspirations in this life should be aligned with the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the teachings of Islam. It prompts us to reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of preparing for the eternal life that awaits us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Death cuts hopes short

serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of this worldly life. It urges us to prioritize our actions and aspirations, to seek righteousness, and to prepare for the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to live a life that is pleasing to Him, and may He bless us with a good ending.