Hadith #3882

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter over the temporary pleasures and material possessions of this world. The key phrase in this Hadith is

مَن سَخَتْ نَفْسُهُ عَنْ مَواهِبِ الدُّنيا

which translates to

One who is glad to relinquish the bounties of this world [for the sake of the Hereafter].

Let us delve into the profound wisdom of this Hadith by exploring its implications in light of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the transient nature of worldly possessions and urges believers to focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah says, (Quran 18:45)

And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allah is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability

This verse beautifully illustrates the fleeting nature of worldly possessions. Just as rainwater nourishes the earth and causes plants to grow, the blessings of this world may bring temporary joy and satisfaction. However, like the plants that wither and scatter, these worldly bounties eventually fade away. Hence, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be content with relinquishing these transient pleasures for the sake of the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter.

Furthermore, the Quran teaches us that true wisdom lies in recognizing the temporary nature of this world and striving for the eternal life to come. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 3:14)

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return

This verse highlights the allure of worldly desires and possessions, which can distract individuals from their ultimate purpose in life. The pursuit of material wealth and worldly pleasures may provide temporary gratification, but it is the Hereafter that holds the true and everlasting reward. By willingly relinquishing the bounties of this world, one demonstrates a higher level of intellect and wisdom, as they prioritize the eternal over the transient.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of self-control and detachment from worldly attachments. By willingly letting go of the temporary pleasures and material possessions, one strengthens their resolve to seek the pleasure of Allah and strive for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. This mindset fosters a sense of contentment and gratitude for the blessings that truly matter, such as faith, knowledge, and good deeds.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of prioritizing the Hereafter over the temporary bounties of this world. By willingly relinquishing worldly possessions and pleasures, one demonstrates a higher level of intellect and wisdom. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly remind believers of the transient nature of worldly possessions and the eternal rewards that await in the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to prioritize the everlasting over the temporary, and may He bless us with success in both worlds.