Hadith #3697

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

This world is the abode of strangers and the dwelling of the wretched.

Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word "dunya" in Arabic refers to the temporal world, the life of this world that we are currently living in. It is a place of trials, tribulations, and impermanence. The word "ghuraba" translates to "strangers" or "foreigners." In the context of this Hadith, it signifies that believers are strangers in this world, as their true home lies in the Hereafter. The word "ashqiya" means "wretched" or "miserable." It highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and the fleeting happiness they provide.

This Hadith resonates with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-An'am, verse 32:

And the worldly life is not but amusement and diversion; but the home of the Hereafter is best for those who fear Allah, so will you not reason?

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and directs our attention towards the eternal abode of the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, Allah (تَبَارَكَ 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.

These verses highlight the transient nature of worldly possessions and the temporary happiness they provide. They serve as a reminder that the true purpose of our existence lies beyond this world. The pursuit of material wealth and worldly desires can lead to a state of misery and spiritual deprivation, as they distract us from our ultimate goal of attaining closeness to Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reflection on the nature of this world. It reminds us that as Muslims, we should not become too attached to the material aspects of life, as they are temporary and can lead us astray from the path of righteousness. Instead, we should focus on cultivating our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of detachment from worldly possessions. By recognizing the transient nature of this world, we can free ourselves from the shackles of materialism and focus on the pursuit of spiritual growth and righteousness. It encourages us to prioritize our actions and intentions, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than the temporary pleasures of this world.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to detach themselves from the allure of this world. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and focus on the eternal abode of the Hereafter. By understanding the transient nature of worldly possessions and the temporary happiness they provide, we can strive to attain true success and contentment in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.