Hadith #1091

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the detrimental habit of excessive hope. The Arabic word (shimah) "شّيمَةُ" refers to a habit or characteristic, while (al-amal) "الأمَلُ" means hope or expectation. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes this habit as the worst because it has two negative consequences: it wastes one's lifetime and causes one to lose the opportunity to perform good deeds.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of taking action and not relying solely on hope. In Surah Yunus, Allah says, (Quran 10:15)

And when Our verses are recited to them as clear evidences, those who do not expect the meeting with Us say, 'Bring us a Qur'an other than this or change it.' Say, [O Muhammad], 'It is not for me to change it on my own accord. I only follow what is revealed to me. Indeed I fear, if I should disobey my Lord, the punishment of a tremendous Day.'

This verse highlights the importance of following the guidance of Allah without questioning or hoping for an alternative. It emphasizes the need for action rather than excessive hope. Similarly, in Surah Al-Ankabut, Allah says, (Quran 29:69)

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of striving and taking action in order to be guided by Allah. It implies that excessive hope without corresponding action is futile.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that while hope is an essential aspect of faith, it should not lead to complacency or inaction. Excessive hope can lead to a wasted life, as one becomes content with mere aspirations and fails to take practical steps towards achieving their goals. It is important to strike a balance between hope and action, as both are necessary for success in this world and the hereafter.

For example, if a person hopes for success in their career but does not put in the effort to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience, their hope will remain unfulfilled. Similarly, if a person hopes for forgiveness and mercy from Allah, but does not engage in acts of worship, repentance, and good deeds, their hope may be in vain.

Furthermore, excessive hope can also lead to neglecting the present moment and focusing solely on future aspirations. This can result in missed opportunities to perform good deeds and make a positive impact in the world. The Quran encourages Muslims to seize the present moment and not delay in performing righteous actions. In Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah says, (Quran 5:35)

O you who have believed, fear Allah and seek the means [of nearness] to Him and strive in His cause that you may succeed.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking the means to draw closer to Allah and striving in His cause. It highlights the need for active engagement in performing good deeds rather than passively hoping for success.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to strike a balance between hope and action. While hope is an integral part of faith, excessive hope without corresponding effort and action can lead to a wasted life and missed opportunities for good deeds. Muslims are encouraged to have hope in Allah's mercy and blessings, but also to actively strive towards their goals and engage in righteous actions. May Allah guide us all to the straight path and grant us success in this world and the hereafter.