Hadith #9508

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 the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

قَلَّ مَنْ غَرِىَ بِاللَّذّاتِ إلاّ كانَ بِها هَلاكُهُ۔

This can be translated as:

Few are those who are enticed by pleasures but that their destruction is caused by it.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (ghariya) "غَرِىَ" refers to being enticed or deceived by something. It implies being captivated by the allure and temporary enjoyment of worldly pleasures. The word (al-lazat) "اللَّذّاتِ" refers to the delights and pleasures of this world. It encompasses material possessions, physical desires, and worldly pursuits that provide temporary satisfaction.

This profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the destructive nature of being captivated by worldly pleasures. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious and not to be deceived by the temporary allure of this world. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), with his deep knowledge and wisdom, warns us that those who become enticed by worldly pleasures are ultimately led to their own destruction.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and the consequences of being attached to them. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 14, Allah says:

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

This verse emphasizes that the love and attachment to worldly desires can blind individuals from the true purpose of life, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It warns us that these pleasures are merely temporary and will not bring lasting fulfillment or salvation.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse beautifully illustrates the transitory nature of worldly pleasures. It compares the allure of worldly life to a rain that brings temporary growth and pleasure, but eventually withers away. It serves as a reminder that the true purpose of life lies in seeking the forgiveness and approval of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), rather than being enticed by the fleeting pleasures of this world.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith echoes the teachings of the Quran, emphasizing the importance of not being deceived by worldly pleasures. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth and seek eternal happiness in the Hereafter, rather than being consumed by the temporary allure of this world.

The consequences of being enticed by worldly pleasures can be far-reaching. It can lead individuals astray from their religious obligations, causing them to neglect their prayers, charity, and moral responsibilities. It can also lead to the pursuit of unethical and immoral actions, as one becomes solely focused on satisfying their desires. Ultimately, being captivated by worldly pleasures can result in the destruction of one's faith, character, and overall well-being.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, Muslims are reminded to strike a balance between the permissible pleasures of this world and their spiritual obligations. They are encouraged to prioritize their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek contentment in His remembrance and obedience. By doing so, they can safeguard themselves from the destructive consequences of being enticed by worldly pleasures.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious and not be deceived by the temporary allure of worldly pleasures. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasize the fleeting nature of this world and the importance of prioritizing the pursuit of Allah's pleasure. By reflecting upon this Hadith and the supporting Quranic verses, Muslims can strive to strike a balance between their worldly pursuits and their spiritual obligations, ultimately seeking eternal happiness in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the destructive consequences of being enticed by worldly pleasures.