Hadith #7837

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

طُوبَىٰ لِمَنْ ذَكَرَ ٱلْمَعَادَ فَأَحْسَنَ

which translates to

Blessed is the one who remembers the Resurrection and thus does good [deeds].

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of remembering the Day of Resurrection and using that remembrance as motivation to perform righteous actions.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (dhakara) "ذَكَرَ" means to remember or to mention. It implies actively keeping the concept of the Resurrection in one's mind and heart. The word (al-ma'ad) "ٱلْمَعَادَ" refers to the Day of Resurrection, the Day when all human beings will be held accountable for their actions in this world. And finally, the word (ahsana) "أَحْسَنَ" means to do good or to excel in righteousness.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the Day of Resurrection and its consequences. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 281, Allah says,

And fear the Day when you will be returned to Allah. Then every soul will be compensated for what it earned, and they will not be wronged.

This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering the Day of Resurrection and the fact that every individual will be recompensed for their actions.

Another verse that sheds light on the significance of remembering the Resurrection is found in Surah Al-Mu'minun, verse 115:

Did you think that We created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?

This verse serves as a reminder that our existence in this world is not without purpose, and we will be brought back to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for accountability.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. By mentioning the Resurrection, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging us to constantly keep in mind the ultimate reality of our existence. This remembrance serves as a powerful motivator to perform good deeds and excel in righteousness.

When we remember the Resurrection, we become conscious of the fact that our actions in this world have consequences. This awareness instills a sense of responsibility and accountability within us. It compels us to strive for excellence in our conduct, to fulfill our obligations towards Allah and His creation, and to avoid actions that may lead to regret in the Hereafter.

The remembrance of the Resurrection also serves as a source of hope and comfort. It reminds us that no matter how difficult our worldly trials may be, there is a Day of Judgment where justice will prevail. It encourages us to persevere in the face of adversity, knowing that our efforts will be rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, the remembrance of the Resurrection helps us prioritize our actions and make choices that align with our ultimate goal of attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It prevents us from being consumed by the temporary pleasures and distractions of this world, and instead directs our focus towards the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of remembering the Resurrection and using that remembrance as a catalyst for performing good deeds. It urges us to constantly keep in mind the ultimate reality of our existence and the consequences of our actions. By doing so, we can strive for excellence in our conduct, find solace in times of difficulty, and align our choices with the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to remember the Resurrection and excel in righteous actions.