Hadith #486

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "كُلُّ آت قَريبٌ۔" This can be translated into English as,

Every future [event] is near.

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (aat) "آت" in this Hadith refers to anything that is yet to come or any future event. It encompasses all aspects of life, including personal matters, societal changes, and global events. The word (qareeb) "قَرِيبٌ" means near or close. It signifies that these future events are not distant or far off, but rather they are imminent and will occur sooner than we may anticipate.

This Hadith reminds us of the transient nature of this world and the constant changes that occur within it. It serves as a reminder that no matter how distant or uncertain the future may seem, it is always closer than we think. This understanding encourages us to be prepared and proactive in facing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the concept conveyed in this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Rum (30:41),

Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of [the consequence of] what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness].

This verse highlights the reality of corruption and its widespread impact, emphasizing that the consequences of our actions will manifest sooner or later.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:42), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And [remember] when you were few and oppressed in the land, fearing that people might abduct you, but He sheltered you, supported you with His victory, and provided you with good things - that you might be grateful.

This verse reminds us of the historical events faced by the early Muslims, where they were few in number and oppressed. However, with Allah's support and victory, their circumstances changed drastically, demonstrating the nearness of future events and the potential for positive transformations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds profound wisdom and lessons for us as Muslims. It serves as a reminder that we should not be complacent or negligent in our actions, as the consequences of our deeds will inevitably catch up with us. It urges us to be mindful of our choices and to strive for righteousness, as the future is not distant but rather approaching rapidly.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to have a forward-thinking mindset. It reminds us that the future is not a distant realm beyond our reach, but rather a reality that is rapidly unfolding. This understanding should motivate us to plan and prepare for the future, both in our personal lives and in our collective endeavors as a Muslim community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Every future [event] is near

serves as a profound reminder of the transient nature of this world and the constant changes that occur within it. It encourages us to be proactive, mindful of our actions, and prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the nearness of the future and the ability to make choices that lead to success in this life and the hereafter.