Hadith #9430

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, "السّاعاتُ مُكْمَنُ الآفاتِ۔" This can be translated as,

Hours are the lurking place of banes.

To understand the connotation behind this statement, let us delve into the key words and their implications.

The word (sa'at) "ساعات" refers to hours or moments. It signifies the passage of time, which is an essential aspect of our existence. Time is a precious resource that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon us, and it is within these moments that we have the opportunity to shape our lives and make choices.

The term (mukman) "مكمن" can be translated as a lurking place or a hidden source. It implies that within the passing hours, there lies a hidden potential for both good and evil. Just as a lurking place can conceal dangers, the hours of our lives can conceal the potential for harm or benefit.

The word (afat) "آفات" refers to banes or afflictions. It encompasses all forms of harm, trials, and tribulations that can befall an individual. These afflictions can manifest in various ways, such as physical, emotional, or spiritual challenges.

To shed light on the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (Chapter 103, Verse 1-3):

By time, Indeed, mankind is in loss, Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This Quranic verse emphasizes the importance of utilizing time wisely and engaging in righteous actions. It reminds us that the passing hours hold the potential for either loss or gain. Those who believe in Allah, perform good deeds, and encourage one another towards truth and patience are the ones who will be saved from the afflictions and losses of this world and the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (Chapter 23, Verse 115), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?

This verse reminds us of the purpose of our existence and the accountability we have towards Allah. It serves as a reminder that the hours of our lives are not to be wasted in heedlessness or frivolity. Rather, they are a test from Allah, and we will be held accountable for how we spent our time.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand that the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of time and the potential it holds for both good and evil. It serves as a reminder that we must be vigilant and mindful of how we utilize the hours of our lives.

If we waste our time in idle pursuits, indulging in sinful activities or neglecting our duties towards Allah and our fellow human beings, we are exposing ourselves to the lurking banes and afflictions that can harm us in this world and the Hereafter. On the other hand, if we utilize our time wisely, engaging in acts of worship, seeking knowledge, performing good deeds, and striving for righteousness, we can protect ourselves from these banes and attain success in both worlds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith to be mindful of the fleeting nature of time and to make the most of every moment. By recognizing the potential for good and evil within the hours of our lives, we are motivated to prioritize our actions and make choices that align with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be conscious of how they spend their time. It urges us to reflect upon the potential consequences of our actions and to strive for righteousness in order to protect ourselves from the lurking banes and afflictions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to make the most of our hours and to utilize them in a manner that pleases Him.