Hadith #6118

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

رُبَّ طَمَع كاذِب لأمَل غائِب (خائِب)۔

This can be translated as:

Sometimes there is a false ambition for an unseen (or lost) hope.

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 (tam'a) "طَمَع" in Arabic refers to a strong desire or ambition for something. It signifies a longing or yearning for a particular outcome or goal. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that this ambition can sometimes be (kathib) "كاذِب", meaning false or deceptive. It implies that the desired outcome may not be attainable or may not bring the expected satisfaction.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further describes this ambition as being for an (amal gha'ib) "أمَل غائِب", which can be translated as an unseen or lost hope. This suggests that the object of desire is either unknown or no longer within reach. It could be a hope that has faded away or a goal that is no longer achievable.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Yunus, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

This verse reminds us that the allure of worldly desires and ambitions can be deceptive. We may be tempted by the temporary pleasures and achievements of this world, but they are merely a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The true provision and fulfillment lie in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Another verse that sheds light on the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse emphasizes the transient nature of worldly ambitions and desires. It likens them to the fleeting growth of plants after rain, which eventually withers away. The true purpose of life lies in seeking forgiveness, approval from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and preparing for the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious of false ambitions and desires that lead us away from the path of righteousness. It urges us to reflect upon the temporary nature of worldly pursuits and the importance of seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) instead.

By recognizing the deceptive nature of false ambitions, we can redirect our focus towards fulfilling the true purpose of our existence. We should strive for actions that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His forgiveness and mercy. This will bring us lasting contentment and eternal rewards in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be mindful of false ambitions and desires that lead us astray. By seeking guidance from the Quran, we can understand the transient nature of worldly pursuits and redirect our focus towards the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to discern between true and false ambitions and guide us on the path of righteousness.