Hadith #9960

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

تارِكُ التَّأَهُّبِ لِلْمَوْتِ، واغْتِنامِ المَهَلِ غافِلٌ عَنْ هُجُومِ الأجَلِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of preparing for death and making the most of the time we have been granted in this world.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it presents. The word (the one who does not) "تارِكُ" refers to a person who neglects or fails to fulfill a certain duty or responsibility. In this context, it refers to the individual who neglects to prepare for death and does not take advantage of the respite or opportunity given to them.

The term (preparation) "التَّأَهُّبِ" signifies the act of being ready and vigilant. It implies taking proactive steps to ensure that one is spiritually and morally prepared for the inevitable event of death. This preparation involves cultivating a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking forgiveness for our sins, and striving to perform righteous deeds.

The phrase (for death) "لِلْمَوْتِ" highlights the importance of recognizing the transient nature of our existence in this world. Death is an undeniable reality that awaits every soul, regardless of age, status, or wealth. It serves as a reminder that our time in this world is limited and that we must prepare for the eternal life that awaits us in the hereafter.

The term (taking benefit) "اغْتِنامِ" urges us to make the most of the respite or opportunity we have been granted in this world. It encourages us to utilize our time wisely, engaging in actions that bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and benefit our souls. It reminds us not to waste our time in heedlessness or indulgence in worldly distractions.

The word (respite) "المَهَلِ" refers to the period of time that we have been given in this world. It is a temporary phase during which we have the chance to rectify our actions, seek forgiveness, and strive for righteousness. This respite is a blessing from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and it is our responsibility to make the most of it.

The phrase (negligent of the onslaught of death)

غافِلٌ عَنْ هُجُومِ الأجَلِ

highlights the consequences of failing to prepare for death and wasting the respite we have been given. It emphasizes the importance of being aware and conscious of the sudden arrival of death, which can come at any moment, without warning. Negligence towards death can lead to regret and loss in the hereafter.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mulk (67:2):

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 reminds us that death is a creation of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and serves as a test for us. It is through our actions and deeds that we are judged. Therefore, it is essential for us to prepare for death by striving to be the best in our actions, seeking forgiveness for our shortcomings, and constantly improving ourselves.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us of the certainty of death and the reality that we will be held accountable for our actions in the hereafter. It emphasizes the temporary nature of this worldly life and the importance of striving for the eternal rewards of Paradise. It serves as a motivation for us to prepare for death and make the most of our time in this world.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that preparing for death and utilizing the respite we have been given is of utmost importance. It is a reminder for us to constantly evaluate our actions, seek forgiveness for our sins, and strive for righteousness. Neglecting this duty can lead to regret and loss in the hereafter.

As Muslims, we should take this Hadith to heart and strive to be vigilant and prepared for the inevitable event of death. Let us make the most of the respite we have been granted, utilizing our time wisely in acts of worship, seeking knowledge, helping others, and striving for the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to prepare for death and make the most of our time in this world.