Hadith #3474

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of planning and moderation in our actions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his wisdom and knowledge, highlights the significance of quality over quantity in our endeavors. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its significance in the light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (tadbir) "التدبير" and (tabzir) "التبذير". "Tadbir" refers to planning, organizing, and carefully considering the consequences of our actions. It involves thoughtful decision-making and foresight. On the other hand, "tabzir" means wastefulness or extravagance. It signifies the squandering of resources, time, or opportunities without any productive outcome.

The Quranic teachings resonate with the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of moderation, wisdom, and planning in various verses. For instance, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:31), Allah says,

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

This verse encourages us to enjoy the blessings of Allah but warns against indulging in excess. It reminds us that moderation and balance are essential in all aspects of our lives. Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra (17:29), Allah says,

And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.

This verse advises us to avoid both extremes, whether it be miserliness or extravagance. It encourages us to strike a balance in our spending and actions, ensuring that we do not fall into financial difficulties or become wasteful.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the long-lasting impact of actions done with planning and moderation. When we carefully consider the consequences of our actions and make informed decisions, our efforts are more likely to yield fruitful results. This principle is beautifully illustrated in the Quran in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah says,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse reminds us that material possessions and worldly achievements are temporary, while the good deeds done with wisdom and foresight have everlasting value in the sight of Allah. It is not the quantity of our actions that matters, but rather the quality and intention behind them.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to reflect on the consequences of our choices and to prioritize quality over quantity. When we plan and execute our actions thoughtfully, we can avoid wastefulness and ensure that our efforts have a lasting impact. This principle applies to all aspects of our lives, whether it be our relationships, work, or worship.

For example, in our worship, it is better to perform a few acts of devotion with sincerity, understanding, and focus, rather than engaging in numerous rituals without mindfulness. Similarly, in our personal and professional lives, it is more beneficial to invest our time and energy in a few meaningful projects rather than spreading ourselves too thin and accomplishing little.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize planning, moderation, and quality in their actions. By reflecting on the consequences of our choices and avoiding wastefulness, we can ensure that our efforts have a lasting impact. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to implement these teachings in our lives.