Hadith #421

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all 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,

This world has been created for other than itself and has not been created for itself.

Let us delve into the essence of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (dunya) "دُّنْيَا" in Arabic refers to the temporal world, the material realm in which we currently reside. It encompasses everything that is transient and perishable. The word (khuliqat) "خُلِقَتْ" means "created," indicating that the world has been brought into existence by the divine will and power of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the purpose of this world is not for its own sake, but rather for something beyond itself. It serves as a means to an end, a temporary abode for human beings to fulfill their ultimate purpose of worshiping and seeking closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This world is a test, a trial, and a place of preparation for the eternal life in the hereafter.

The Quran provides several verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. 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 highlights the fleeting nature of this world and emphasizes that its true purpose lies in preparing for the everlasting life to come.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mulk (67:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

It is He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.

This verse affirms that life in this world is a test, a means for individuals to demonstrate their righteousness and obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds profound implications for our understanding of the purpose of our existence. It reminds us that our focus should not be solely on the material aspects of this world, but rather on the spiritual and moral growth that it enables. We should not become attached to the transient pleasures and distractions of this world, but instead prioritize our actions and intentions in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

This Hadith serves as a reminder that our ultimate goal is to attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and secure a place in the eternal abode of the Hereafter. It encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions in this world and the impact they will have on our eternal destiny. It motivates us to strive for righteousness, seek knowledge, and engage in acts of worship that will bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which is evident in this enlightening saying. His understanding of the purpose of this world aligns with the teachings of the Quran, reminding us of the transient nature of this life and the importance of focusing on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the temporary nature of this world and its purpose as a means to an end. It urges us to prioritize our actions and intentions in accordance with the teachings of Islam, and to strive for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true purpose of this world and guide us on the path of righteousness.