Hadith #156

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, and his noble companions.

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

الاْمْرُ قَرِيبٌ وَالاْصْطِحَابُ قَلِيلٌ۔

This can be translated as,

The Day of Judgement is near and our mutual company is short.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds great significance and provides us with a reminder of the fleeting nature of this worldly life and the urgency to prepare for the Hereafter.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the words used in this Hadith. The word (al-amr) "الاْمْرُ" refers to the matter or affair, specifically referring to the Day of Judgement. It signifies the ultimate event that will mark the end of this world and the beginning of the eternal life in the Hereafter. The word (qareeb) "قَرِيبٌ" means near or close, indicating that the Day of Judgement is not a distant event but rather approaching rapidly.

The second part of the Hadith mentions (al-istihab) "الاْصْطِحَابُ", which can be understood as mutual company or companionship. It highlights the limited time we have in this world to be in the company of one another. This reminds us of the transitory nature of our relationships and the importance of utilizing our time wisely to strengthen our bonds and engage in acts of goodness.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Qari'ah, verse 1-2,

The striking calamity! What is the striking calamity?

These verses emphasize the importance and seriousness of the Day of Judgement, highlighting its inevitable arrival and the impact it will have on all of humanity.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 103:1-3)

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

These verses emphasize the fleeting nature of time and the urgency to utilize it in pursuing faith, righteousness, and encouraging one another towards truth and patience.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the shortness of our time in this world and the need to prioritize our actions and relationships. The Day of Judgement is approaching, and it serves as a reminder for us to prepare ourselves spiritually, mentally, and morally. We should strive to strengthen our faith, perform righteous deeds, and maintain sincere companionship with fellow Muslims.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of valuing our relationships and making the most of the limited time we have together. We should strive to build strong bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, supporting and advising one another towards truth and patience. By doing so, we can collectively prepare for the Day of Judgement and strive for success in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the proximity of the Day of Judgement and the brevity of our time in this world. It urges us to prioritize our actions, strengthen our faith, and maintain sincere companionship with fellow Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to make the most of our time and prepare for the Hereafter.