Hadith #3965

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "لِكُلِّ دَوْلَة بُرْهَةٌ۔" which translates to

For every empire there is a period [after which it falls].

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries profound wisdom and is supported by the teachings of the Quran.

The word (dawlah) "دَوْلَة" in this Hadith refers to an empire or a ruling authority. It signifies a period of dominance and power held by a particular group or nation. The word (burhah) "بُرْهَةٌ" refers to a specific period or a fixed term. It implies that every empire has a predetermined lifespan, after which it will inevitably decline and fall.

This concept of the rise and fall of empires is not only mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), but it is also emphasized in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ar-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 cyclic nature of human history, where corruption and wrongdoing lead to the downfall of nations.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:44), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

We granted not to any human being immortality before you, then if you die, would they live forever?

This verse reminds us of the transient nature of human existence and the inevitability of death. Similarly, empires, which are built and governed by humans, are also subject to the laws of impermanence.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims that no matter how powerful or prosperous an empire may seem, it is destined to decline and eventually fall. This understanding should instill humility and a sense of accountability in the hearts of believers. It reminds us that the true source of power and authority lies with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can observe its relevance throughout history. Numerous empires, such as the Roman Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and more recently, the British Empire, have risen to great heights only to witness their eventual decline. These examples serve as a testament to the truth of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement.

Understanding the transient nature of empires also has practical implications for Muslims. It reminds us not to become overly attached to worldly power and material possessions. Instead, our focus should be on seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and working towards establishing justice and righteousness in society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "لِكُلِّ دَوْلَة بُرْهَةٌ۔" highlights the transient nature of empires and their inevitable decline. This concept is supported by the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the cyclic nature of human history and the impermanence of worldly power. Muslims should reflect on this wisdom and strive for lasting success by seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and working towards establishing justice and righteousness in society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand these lessons and guide us on the path of righteousness.