Hadith #4563

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الزُّهْدُ أفْضَلُ الراحَتَينِ" which translates to

Renunciation of worldly pleasures is the better of the two comforts.

This Hadith highlights the importance of adopting a lifestyle of asceticism and detachment from worldly desires.

The word (az-zuhd) "الزُّهْدُ" refers to renunciation or detachment from worldly possessions and desires. It signifies a state of contentment and satisfaction with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided, without being attached to material possessions or seeking excessive worldly pleasures. It is a mindset that prioritizes the eternal rewards of the hereafter over the temporary pleasures of this world.

To understand the significance of zuhd, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 20:131)

And strain not your eyes in longing for the things We have given for enjoyment to various groups of them (polytheists and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah), the splendor of the life of this world that We may test them thereby. But the provision (good reward in the Hereafter) of your Lord is better and more lasting

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and urges believers not to be captivated by them. It reminds us that the true and lasting comfort lies in the provision and rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the Hereafter. By practicing zuhd, we detach ourselves from the distractions of this world and focus on the ultimate goal of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, zuhd is not synonymous with poverty or deprivation. It is about having a balanced approach towards worldly possessions and recognizing that they are temporary and transient. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid, (Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like a rain whose vegetation pleases the tillers; then it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers, evil-doers), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers, good-doers), whereas the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment

This verse reminds us that the attractions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They may bring momentary pleasure, but they cannot provide lasting comfort and fulfillment. The true comfort lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the superiority of zuhd over worldly comforts. By renouncing worldly pleasures, one frees themselves from the distractions that hinder spiritual growth and focus on the path of righteousness. This renunciation leads to a state of contentment, tranquility, and inner peace. It allows individuals to prioritize their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure above all else.

Practicing zuhd does not mean completely isolating oneself from the world or neglecting one's responsibilities. Rather, it is about maintaining a balanced approach, where one uses the blessings of this world in a manner that pleases Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and benefits others. It involves being grateful for what one has, avoiding excessive attachment to material possessions, and using them in ways that bring about positive change and benefit society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of zuhd, the renunciation of worldly pleasures. By adopting a mindset of detachment and prioritizing the eternal rewards of the Hereafter, we can find true comfort and fulfillment. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to practice zuhd and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives.