Hadith #509

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

If you were to see death and its approach, you would surely hate [false] aspiration and its deception.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of recognizing the reality of death and its impact on our lives.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ajal) "أجَلَ" refers to death, which is the ultimate reality that every human being will face. It is the appointed time when our souls will depart from this worldly life. The word (masira) "مَسيرَهُ" refers to the approach or the journey towards death. It signifies the gradual progression of time leading us closer to our inevitable end.

To fully comprehend the message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:57),

Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.

This verse reminds us that death is an inescapable reality for every individual. It serves as a reminder that we will all be held accountable for our actions in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Say, 'Indeed, the death from which you flee - indeed, it will meet you. Then you will be returned to the Knower of the unseen and the witnessed, and He will inform you about what you used to do.'

This verse emphasizes the certainty of death and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound impact that the realization of death can have on an individual. When one truly comprehends the transient nature of this worldly life and the certainty of death, it leads to a shift in priorities and a detachment from false aspirations and deceptive desires.

False aspirations refer to the pursuit of worldly desires that are temporary and fleeting. They may include material wealth, fame, and power. These aspirations often deceive individuals into believing that they will bring lasting happiness and fulfillment. However, the reality is that they are transient and will ultimately be left behind in this world.

The realization of death and its approach serves as a wake-up call, reminding us to focus on what truly matters in the eternal realm. It prompts us to prioritize our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strive for righteous actions that will benefit us in the Hereafter. It compels us to detach ourselves from the illusions of this world and seek true contentment through spiritual growth and the pursuit of the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect on the transient nature of this worldly life and the importance of preparing for the eternal life to come. It urges us to seek knowledge, engage in acts of worship, and strive for moral excellence. By recognizing the reality of death and its approach, we are motivated to live a purposeful life that aligns with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transformative power of recognizing the reality of death and its approach. It urges Muslims to detach themselves from false aspirations and deceptive desires, and instead focus on what truly matters in the eternal realm. By aligning our actions with the teachings of Islam and prioritizing our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can strive for a meaningful and purposeful life that will lead to success in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to internalize this impactful message and live our lives in accordance with His guidance.