Hadith #4288

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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,

رُبَّ رَجاء خائِب لأِْمَل كاذِب۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as,

Many a frustrated hope is brought about by a false aspiration.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (rubba) "رُبَّ" signifies "many" or "countless." (rajaa) "رَجاء" refers to "hope" or "expectation." (khaa'ib) "خائِب" means "frustrated" or "disappointed." And (amal) "أِْمَل" translates to "aspiration" or "desire." Lastly, (kaadhib) "كاذِب" means "false" or "deceptive."

To understand the wise message of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Yunus, verse 23:

But when He saves them, at once they commit injustice upon the earth without right. O mankind, your injustice is only against yourselves, [being merely] the enjoyment of worldly life. Then to Us is your return, and We will inform you of what you used to do.

This verse reminds us that sometimes our hopes and aspirations can lead us astray. We may desire something that seems appealing, but in reality, it is deceptive and does not bring true fulfillment. Just as the people mentioned in this verse commit injustice after being saved, we too can fall into the trap of false aspirations and engage in actions that harm ourselves and others.

Another verse that sheds light on the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 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 fleeting nature of worldly desires and aspirations. Just as the rain causes temporary growth in plants, the pleasures of this world are transient and ultimately lead to disappointment. Our hopes and aspirations should be directed towards the eternal life of the Hereafter, where true fulfillment and everlasting rewards await.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that it serves as a reminder to Muslims of the dangers of pursuing false aspirations. We may be tempted by worldly desires and believe that they will bring us happiness and success. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that such aspirations are deceptive and can lead to frustration and disappointment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, urges us to align our hopes and aspirations with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). By seeking knowledge, understanding the true purpose of life, and striving for righteousness, we can avoid falling into the trap of false aspirations.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be cautious of false aspirations that may lead to frustration and disappointment. We should seek guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to ensure that our hopes and aspirations are aligned with the eternal truth and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to discern between true and false aspirations and guide us on the path of righteousness.