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إنَّ الدُّنيا دارٌ أوَّلُها عَناءٌ، وآخِرُها فَناءٌ، في حَلالِها حِسابٌ، وَفي حَرامِها عِقابٌ، مَنِ اسْتَغْنى فيها فَتَنَ ومَنِ افْتَقَرَ فيها حَزِنَ۔

Verily this world is an abode, the beginning of which is pain and its end is annihilation. In its lawful there is accounting and in its forbidden there is punishment. One who is wealthy in it is tested and one who is poor in it is sorrowful.

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Verily this world is an abode, the beginning of which is pain and its end...

— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: This World)

Personal Reflection

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 (), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of this world and the challenges it presents to individuals. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word "دار" refers to a dwelling or abode, indicating that this world is not our permanent home. The word "عَناءٌ" means pain or hardship, emphasizing the difficulties and trials that one encounters in this worldly life. The word "فَناءٌ" signifies annihilation or destruction, highlighting the ultimate fate of this world and everything within it.

The Hadith further states that in the lawful aspects of this world, there is accounting, meaning that our actions and choices in this life will be taken into account on the Day of Judgment. Similarly, in the forbidden aspects of this world, there is punishment, indicating that transgressions and sins committed in this life will have consequences.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185:

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection.

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of life in this world and the true recompense that awaits us in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 64, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter - that is the [eternal] life, if only they knew.

This verse serves as a reminder that the true purpose of our existence lies beyond the fleeting pleasures and distractions of this world.

The Hadith also highlights the different tests faced by individuals in this worldly life. Those who are wealthy may be tested with the responsibility of managing their wealth and using it for the betterment of society. This is in line with the Quranic verse in Surah Al-Balad, verse 20:

But as for he who is given his record in his right hand, he will say, 'Here, read my record!'

This verse indicates that wealth and abundance can be a test, as individuals will be held accountable for how they utilized their resources.

On the other hand, those who are poor may experience sorrow and hardship. The Quran acknowledges the struggles faced by the less fortunate in Surah Al-Insan, verse 8:

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive.

This verse encourages believers to show compassion and generosity towards those who are in need, recognizing that poverty can be a trial for individuals.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of this world and the challenges it presents. It emphasizes the importance of accountability for our actions and the consequences of transgressions. It also highlights the different tests faced by individuals, whether they are wealthy or poor. As Muslims, we should strive to navigate through the trials of this world with patience, gratitude, and a constant awareness of the eternal life that awaits us in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this world and guide us towards righteousness.

. : . (Readers are advised to verify the sources mentioned above, and to independently research for an accurate understanding of Hadith. Remember, personal research and seeking guidance from scholars are essential in gaining a better insight. Please, do contact us if you find any wrong citations or explanations.)

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