Hadith #1118

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, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أكْثَرُ النَّاسِ أمَلاً أقَلُّهُمْ لِلْمَوْتِ ذِكراً۔

This Hadith emphasizes that those who have the most false hopes are the ones who remember death the least. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (amalan) "أمَلاً" in this Hadith refers to hopes or expectations. It implies having excessive optimism or unrealistic expectations about worldly matters. On the other hand, the word (dhikran) "ذِكْرًا" means remembrance or mention. In this context, it refers to the remembrance of death, which serves as a reminder of the transient nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter.

The Quran provides numerous verses that highlight the significance of remembering death and the consequences of neglecting it. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:185),

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.

This verse reminds us that death is an inevitable reality that every soul will face, and the true reward and compensation will be given in the Hereafter.

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

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 of those who neglected the remembrance of death and the opportunity to do righteous deeds in this world. It emphasizes that once death approaches, it will be too late to rectify one's actions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect on the transient nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. It warns against being consumed by false hopes and excessive attachment to worldly desires, which can distract us from our ultimate purpose in life.

When individuals become engrossed in worldly pursuits and neglect the remembrance of death, they may lose sight of their spiritual obligations and the need to strive for righteousness. This can lead to a state of heedlessness and a false sense of security, where they become oblivious to the consequences of their actions.

On the other hand, those who remember death frequently are more likely to prioritize their spiritual growth and strive for righteousness. The remembrance of death serves as a motivation to engage in acts of worship, seek forgiveness, and rectify one's behavior. It instills a sense of urgency in preparing for the Hereafter and encourages individuals to lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect on the transient nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. It warns against being consumed by false hopes and excessive attachment to worldly desires, which can distract us from our ultimate purpose in life. By remembering death, we are reminded of the consequences of our actions and are motivated to strive for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to remember death and live a life that is pleasing to Him.