Hadith #7633

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of taking action and seeking repentance while we are still alive and have the opportunity to do so. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (awinat) "آوِنَةِ" refers to the period of our existence in this world. It highlights the transient nature of life and the urgency to make the most of our time. The word (manshoorah) "مَنْشُورَةٌ" means that the books of our deeds are still open. It signifies that our actions are being recorded and will be presented before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) on the Day of Judgment.

The word (mabsoutah) "مَبْسُوطَةٌ" denotes that repentance is still accepted. It indicates that Allah's mercy and forgiveness are readily available to those who sincerely seek repentance. The word (mudbir) "مُدْبِرُ" refers to the one who has strayed from the right path. It implies that even those who have deviated from the straight path are called back and given the opportunity to return to the right path.

Furthermore, the word (musee) "مُسِيءُ" refers to the sinner. It conveys the message that even the sinner is given hope of forgiveness and redemption. This Hadith urges us to seize the opportunity for repentance and seek forgiveness before it is too late.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:16),

Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah and what has come down of the truth?

This verse reminds us that the time to turn to Allah and seek His forgiveness is now, while we are still alive and have the chance to rectify our actions.

In Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse emphasizes the importance of doing good deeds and treating others with justice and kindness, regardless of their beliefs or actions. It reminds us that our actions in this world have consequences and will be taken into account.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we understand that it serves as a reminder to Muslims of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of utilizing our time wisely. It urges us to take action, seek repentance, and strive for righteousness while we still have the opportunity. It also highlights the boundless mercy and forgiveness of Allah, encouraging even the sinners to have hope and turn back to Him.

The consequences of not heeding this advice are grave. If we neglect to take action, repent, and seek forgiveness, our actions may diminish, time will run out, and the door of repentance may close. Therefore, it is essential for us to reflect upon our actions, seek forgiveness for our sins, and strive to improve ourselves while we still have the chance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to seize the opportunity for action and repentance while we are still alive. It emphasizes the importance of utilizing our time wisely, seeking forgiveness, and striving for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to act upon this advice and seek His forgiveness before it is too late.