Hadith #492

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الأجلُ جُنَّةٌ" which translates to

The appointed time of death is a shield.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

Let us first reflect on the word (al-ajal) "الأجلُ", which refers to the appointed time or moment of death. It signifies the predetermined time when every soul will depart from this worldly life and return to its Creator. This concept is beautifully mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-An'am, verse 2: (6:2)

It is Allah who takes away the souls at the time of their death, and those that do not die during their sleep. He retains those souls for which He has decreed death, and releases the rest for an appointed term.

The word (junnah) "جُنَّةٌ" in the Hadith means a shield or protection. It implies that the appointed time of death acts as a shield for the believer, safeguarding them from the trials and tribulations of this world. Just as a shield protects a warrior from harm, the moment of death shields the believer from the challenges and hardships of life.

To further understand the depth of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 50, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (8:50)

And if they intend to deceive you - then sufficient for you is Allah. It is He who supported you with His help and with the believers.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate protector and supporter of the believers. When the time of death arrives, it becomes a shield that separates the believer from the trials and deceptions of this world, and they are embraced by the mercy and protection of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The understanding of this Hadith also highlights the importance of recognizing the transient nature of this worldly life. It reminds us that death is an inevitable reality that we must all face. It serves as a reminder to prioritize our actions and strive for righteousness, as our time in this world is limited. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185, (3:185)

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.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims to live a life of purpose and righteousness, always mindful of the reality of death. It encourages us to seek protection in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to strive for the Hereafter, where true success lies. It also reminds us to detach ourselves from the materialistic pursuits of this world and focus on the eternal rewards that await us in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "الأجلُ جُنَّةٌ" conveys a beautiful message about the appointed time of death being a shield for the believer. It reminds us of the transient nature of this world and urges us to prioritize our actions and strive for righteousness. By recognizing the reality of death and seeking protection in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can navigate through the challenges of life and attain success in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the significance of this Hadith and the ability to live our lives in accordance with its teachings.