Hadith #3788

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

He who turns away from the embellishments of this world gains the joy of the glad tidings [of Paradise].

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of detaching oneself from the attractions and distractions of this worldly life in order to attain the true happiness and rewards promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (dhafara) "ظَفَرَ" means to gain victory or triumph. In this context, it refers to achieving success and attaining the ultimate goal of Paradise. (bi-farhati) "بِفَرْحَةِ" translates to

with the joy of

or

through the happiness of.

It signifies the immense delight and contentment that one experiences when they turn away from the allurements of this world. (al-bushra) "البُشْرَى" refers to the glad tidings or good news that is given to those who follow the path of righteousness and piety.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the temporary nature of this worldly life and the importance of focusing on the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah says, (Quran 18:45)

And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allah is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and pleasures. Just as rainwater nourishes the earth and brings forth vegetation, but eventually dries up and disappears, the attractions of this world also fade away. Therefore, those who become engrossed in these temporary delights are ultimately left empty-handed.

Another Quranic verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-An'am, where Allah says, (Quran 42:20)

Whoever desires the harvest of the Hereafter - We increase for him in his harvest. And whoever desires the harvest of this world - We give him thereof, but there is not for him in the Hereafter any share.

This verse emphasizes that those who prioritize the pleasures and possessions of this world will receive their share, but it will be at the expense of their rewards in the Hereafter. On the other hand, those who turn away from the embellishments of this world and focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter will be granted an abundance of blessings and joy.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the gate to the city of knowledge, possessed profound wisdom and understanding. He recognized the fleeting nature of worldly attractions and the everlasting nature of the rewards promised by Allah. By turning away from the distractions of this world, one can attain a state of tranquility and contentment that surpasses any temporary pleasure.

The consequences of adhering to the teachings of this Hadith are immense. By detaching ourselves from the materialistic pursuits of this world, we free ourselves from the constant desire for more and the anxiety that accompanies it. Instead, we focus on cultivating our relationship with Allah and striving for righteousness. This leads to a sense of inner peace, fulfillment, and the ultimate reward of Paradise.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of prioritizing our spiritual well-being over worldly desires. It encourages us to seek true happiness and success by turning away from the temporary allurements of this world and focusing on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the strength to detach ourselves from the embellishments of this world.