Hadith #484

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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) states,

عِنْدَ حُضُورِ الآجالِ، تَظْهَرُ خَيْبَةُ الآمالِ۔

This can be translated as,

It is when [the time of] death comes that the failure of [one’s] aspirations become apparent.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (ajal) "آجالِ" in the Hadith refers to the appointed time of death. It signifies the predetermined duration of a person's life on this earth, which is known only to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a reminder that every soul has an appointed time to depart from this world and return to its Creator.

The word (khaibah) "خَيْبَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the disappointment or failure of one's aspirations, hopes, and dreams. It highlights the realization that many of the worldly desires and ambitions that people strive for throughout their lives ultimately prove to be empty and futile when faced with the certainty of death.

This profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) resonates with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:64),

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.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the temporary nature of this worldly life and the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come. In Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we realize that the true measure of success lies not in the fulfillment of worldly desires, but in the pursuit of righteousness and the preparation for the eternal life to come. The aspirations and ambitions that consume us in this world may seem significant, but when faced with the certainty of death, they lose their value and significance.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us to prioritize our spiritual growth and the pursuit of the hereafter. He encourages us to reflect on the transient nature of this world and to invest our time and efforts in actions that will benefit us in the eternal life.

This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their priorities and focus on the deeds that will bring them closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It urges us to seek knowledge, perform righteous deeds, and strive for the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than being consumed by worldly aspirations that will ultimately fade away.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the fleeting nature of worldly aspirations and the importance of prioritizing the eternal life. It calls upon Muslims to reflect on the purpose of their existence and to strive for righteousness and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May we all take heed of this profound reminder and work towards building a meaningful and purposeful life that will lead us to success in this world and the hereafter.