Hadith #477

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

في كُلِّ لَحْظَة أجَلٌ۔

which translates to

At every moment there is death.

This profound statement holds deep meaning and serves as a reminder for all Muslims.

Let us first examine the important words in this Hadith. The word (lahzah) "لَحْظَة" refers to a moment or an instant, indicating the brevity and unpredictability of life. The word (ajal) "أجَلٌ" means death, signifying the inevitable end of our worldly existence.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185: (Quran 3:185)

Every soul will taste death.

This verse emphasizes the universal reality of death that every human being will inevitably face. It serves as a reminder that death is not confined to a specific time or place but can occur at any moment.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 57, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states: (Quran 29:57)

Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.

This verse reinforces the concept of death as a natural part of life and highlights the ultimate return to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) after death.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us of the fleeting nature of our existence in this world. It serves as a wake-up call, urging us to reflect upon the purpose of our lives and the actions we take in each moment. We are reminded that death can come suddenly, without warning, and we must be prepared for its arrival.

This Hadith prompts us to contemplate the brevity of life and the importance of utilizing our time wisely. It encourages us to prioritize our actions and make the most of every moment, ensuring that we engage in deeds that will benefit us in the hereafter.

For instance, when faced with a choice between engaging in sinful activities or performing acts of worship, this Hadith reminds us to choose the path that leads to righteousness. It encourages us to seize every opportunity to seek forgiveness, engage in acts of charity, and strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a motivation to constantly strive for self-improvement and spiritual growth. It reminds us that our time in this world is limited and that we should make the most of it by engaging in acts of worship, seeking knowledge, and spreading goodness. It encourages us to reflect upon our actions, rectify our shortcomings, and strive to become better Muslims.

The consequences of neglecting the message of this Hadith are grave. If we fail to recognize the fleeting nature of life and remain heedless of death, we risk wasting our precious time in worldly pursuits that hold no value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). We may become engrossed in materialistic desires, neglect our religious obligations, and lose sight of the ultimate purpose of our existence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

At every moment there is death

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. It urges us to utilize our time wisely, prioritize acts of worship, and strive for self-improvement. By internalizing this message, we can lead purposeful lives, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life to come. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the essence behind this Hadith and the ability to act upon its teachings.