Hadith #9608

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The succession of the night and day is the hiding place of calamities and the herald of separation [from loved ones].

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of time and the challenges it brings. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (kurur) "كُرُورُ" in the Hadith refers to the succession or alternation of the night and day. It signifies the continuous cycle of time, where darkness is followed by light, and light is followed by darkness. This cycle is a reminder of the transient nature of life and the constant changes and challenges that we face.

The word (al-afat) "الآفاتِ" in the Hadith refers to calamities or afflictions. It encompasses the trials and tribulations that we encounter in our lives. These calamities can be physical, emotional, or spiritual in nature. They serve as tests from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to strengthen our faith and character.

The phrase (da'i al-shatat) "داعِى الشَّتاتِ" in the Hadith means the herald of separation from loved ones. It highlights the reality that time brings about separation and distance from those we hold dear. It serves as a reminder that our time in this world is limited, and we must cherish our relationships and make the most of the time we have with our loved ones.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the wisdom behind Imam Ali's statement. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse emphasizes that calamities and trials are an inevitable part of life, and they serve as a means of testing our patience and resilience.

In Surah Al-Ankabut (29:64), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter - that is the [eternal] life, if only they knew.

This verse reminds us that the fleeting nature of this world is filled with distractions and temporary pleasures. It serves as a reminder to focus on the eternal life of the Hereafter, where there will be no separation or calamities.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds deep wisdom and lessons for us as Muslims. It reminds us to be prepared for the challenges and trials that come with the passage of time. It urges us to develop patience, resilience, and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) during difficult times. It also serves as a reminder to cherish our relationships and make the most of the time we have with our loved ones.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to make the best use of our time, seeking forgiveness for our sins, performing acts of worship, and being mindful of our responsibilities towards ourselves and others. We should remember that this world is temporary, and our ultimate goal is to attain success in the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the transient nature of time and the strength to overcome the challenges it brings. May He bless us with patience, resilience, and the ability to make the most of our relationships. Ameen.