Hadith #10521

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) warns us about the consequences of engaging in futile and harmful endeavors. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (troubles himself) "أتْعَبَ", (himself) "نَفْسَهُ", (does not benefit him) "لايَنْفَعُهُ", and (harms him) "يَضُرُّهُ".

The word (troubles himself) "أتْعَبَ" refers to exerting effort, labor, or toil. It implies engaging in activities that demand energy and time. (himself) "نَفْسَهُ" emphasizes that the individual is voluntarily subjecting themselves to this labor.

The phrase (does not benefit him) "لايَنْفَعُهُ" highlights the futility of the actions undertaken. It signifies that despite the efforts invested, there will be no positive outcome or advantage gained from these endeavors.

On the other hand, (harms him) "يَضُرُّهُ" emphasizes the negative consequences that result from engaging in such futile activities. It implies that not only will there be no benefit, but harm will befall the individual as a result of their actions.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of engaging in beneficial actions and avoiding those that are futile or harmful.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:195)

And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of spending in the way of Allah, which is a beneficial action. It also warns against throwing oneself into destruction, which can be understood as engaging in futile or harmful activities that lead to negative consequences.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 7:56)

And do not commit abuse on the earth, spreading corruption.

This verse reminds us to refrain from engaging in actions that cause harm or corruption. It emphasizes the importance of engaging in beneficial actions that contribute to the betterment of society.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we can understand that it serves as a warning against wasting our time and energy on futile or harmful endeavors. It encourages us to prioritize actions that bring about benefit and avoid those that lead to harm.

By heeding this advice, we can ensure that our efforts are directed towards actions that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and beneficial to ourselves and others. We should strive to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, perform acts of charity, and contribute positively to society. This will not only bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but also lead to personal growth, fulfillment, and a positive impact on the world around us.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to discern between beneficial and futile actions, and the strength to prioritize that which brings us closer to Him. Ameen.