Hadith #3709

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

Verily I have divorced this world thrice uncompromisingly, [such that] there is no return to it for me, and I have released it completely.

This statement reflects the deep detachment and disinterest that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) had towards the materialistic aspects of this world.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (talaaqtu) "طَلَّقْتُ" means "I have divorced," indicating a complete separation and detachment. The word (ad-dunya) "الدُّنْيا" refers to the temporal world, with all its attractions and distractions. The word (thalathan) "ثَلاثاً" means "thrice," emphasizing the firmness and decisiveness of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) divorce from the world. The phrase (batatan) "بَتاتاً" signifies an uncompromising and resolute divorce, leaving no room for any attachment or return.

To understand the meaning behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

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.

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the temporary nature of worldly pleasures. It emphasizes that the true purpose of life lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) recognized this truth and chose to divorce himself from the allurements of this world.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) detachment from the world was not merely a superficial renunciation of material possessions. It was a profound spiritual state that allowed him to focus solely on his relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the pursuit of eternal rewards. This detachment enabled him to prioritize justice, truth, and the well-being of the Muslim community over personal gain or worldly desires.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) divorce from the world serves as a powerful example for Muslims, reminding us to prioritize our spiritual growth and the pursuit of righteousness over worldly attachments. It teaches us that true success lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving for the betterment of society, rather than being consumed by materialistic pursuits.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) divorce from the world also serves as a reminder of the transitory nature of this life. It urges us to reflect on the impermanence of worldly possessions and the inevitability of death. By recognizing the temporary nature of this world, we are motivated to invest our time and efforts in actions that will have lasting benefits in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights his profound detachment from the materialistic aspects of this world. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth and the pursuit of righteousness over worldly attachments. By divorcing himself from the world, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified the true essence of Islam and provided us with a powerful example to follow. May we strive to emulate his detachment and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of our lives.