Hadith #6416

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

أيْنَ العَمالِقَةُ وأبْناءُ العَمالِقَةِ؟!

which translates to,

Where are the ‘Amāliqa and the children of the ‘Amāliqa?

This Hadith is a beautiful saying made by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, we must first explore the key words used. The term "‘Amāliqa" refers to the mighty and powerful beings, often associated with supernatural strength and abilities. The term

children of the ‘Amāliqa

refers to the descendants or followers of these powerful beings.

In the context of this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is questioning the whereabouts of these powerful beings and their descendants. This statement can be seen as a rhetorical question, expressing the absence or disappearance of those who were once considered mighty and influential.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 58,

And how many a city have We destroyed that was insolent in its [way of] living, and those are their dwellings which have not been inhabited after them except briefly. And it is We who were the inheritors.

This verse highlights the transient nature of power and influence in this world. Cities and civilizations that were once mighty and dominant have been reduced to ruins, with no trace of their former glory.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 96, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Until, when [the dam of] Gog and Magog has been opened and they, from every elevation, descend.

This verse refers to the story of Gog and Magog, two powerful and destructive nations that will be unleashed upon the world near the end of times. It serves as a reminder that even the most formidable forces will eventually be brought to account by Allah's decree.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) question in the Hadith can be seen as a reflection on the transient nature of power and the ultimate authority of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It serves as a reminder to Muslims that true strength and influence lie in obedience to Allah and adherence to His guidance. The 'Amāliqa and their descendants, who were once considered powerful, have either vanished or lost their influence, while the true believers who follow the path of righteousness continue to thrive.

This Hadith also serves as a motivation for Muslims to prioritize their actions and strive for lasting impact. It reminds us that worldly power and influence are fleeting, and it is the deeds and actions that we leave behind that truly matter. As Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the transient nature of power and influence in this world. It urges Muslims to prioritize their actions and strive for lasting impact, focusing on the deeds that will bring them closer to Allah's pleasure. It is a call to reflect on the true source of strength and to seek guidance from the Quran in navigating the challenges of this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).