Hadith #590

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) highlights the importance of preparing for the Hereafter before the appointed time of death. The word (mutazawwid) "مُتَزَوِّدٌ" in the Hadith refers to someone who has made adequate provisions or preparations. The word (akhiratihi) "آخِرَتِهِ" refers to the Hereafter, the eternal life that awaits every individual after death. The phrase (qabla uzufi rihlatihi) "قَبْلَ اُزُوفِ رِحْلَتِهِ" means

before the coming of [the hour of] his departure.

This Hadith emphasizes the need for Muslims to prioritize their preparations for the Hereafter, ensuring that they have fulfilled their obligations and performed righteous deeds before the appointed time of death arrives. It serves as a reminder that our worldly life is temporary, and what truly matters is the eternal life that awaits us.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

Take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of preparing for the Hereafter by cultivating piety and God-consciousness. It is through the fear of Allah and the adherence to His commands that one can truly prepare for the eternal life.

Another verse that complements the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Taghabun, verse 16:

So fear Allah as much as you are able and listen and obey and spend [in the way of Allah]; it is better for your selves. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful.

This verse encourages believers to fear Allah to the best of their abilities, obey His commands, and spend in His cause. By doing so, they are preparing for their Hereafter and ensuring success in both worlds.

The exegesis of this Hadith highlights the importance of prioritizing our preparations for the Hereafter. It serves as a reminder that our worldly possessions and achievements are temporary, while our actions and deeds in this life will have everlasting consequences in the Hereafter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, urges Muslims to reflect upon their actions and ensure that they have made adequate provisions for the eternal life.

This Hadith motivates Muslims to engage in acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, giving charity, and performing Hajj, with sincerity and devotion. It encourages them to seek forgiveness for their sins, repent, and strive to improve their character and conduct. By doing so, they are preparing themselves for the Hereafter and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of neglecting the preparations for the Hereafter are severe. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Al-Munafiqun, verse 10:

And spend [in the way of Allah] from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.'

This verse highlights the regret of those who neglected their preparations for the Hereafter and were not able to fulfill their obligations before the appointed time of death. It serves as a reminder to seize the opportunity of this life and make the necessary provisions for the eternal life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of preparing for the Hereafter before the appointed time of death. It urges Muslims to prioritize their actions and deeds, ensuring that they have fulfilled their obligations and performed righteous acts. By reflecting upon this Hadith and the supporting Quranic verses, Muslims are motivated to engage in acts of worship, seek forgiveness, and strive for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to prepare for the Hereafter and make us among those who are successful in both worlds.