Hadith #3745

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of this worldly life and the inevitability of death. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) begins by stating,

The living of this world are prone to death.

Here, the word (living) "حَيُّ" refers to those who are alive in this world. They are constantly moving towards their ultimate destination, which is death. This highlights the temporary nature of our existence in this world and reminds us of the reality that death is an inescapable reality for every living being.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states,

its healthy are prone to sicknesses.

The word (its healthy) "صَحيحُها" refers to those who are in good health and free from any physical ailments. However, even those who are seemingly healthy are susceptible to sicknesses and diseases. This reminds us that no matter how strong or healthy we may be, we are still vulnerable to the trials and tribulations of this world. It serves as a reminder of our dependence on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the temporary nature of our physical well-being.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by saying,

and the target of [the arrow of] death.

Here, the word (target) "دَريئَةُ" refers to the aim or objective of death. Death is like an arrow that has been shot, and its target is every living being. This emphasizes the certainty of death and the fact that it will eventually reach every individual, regardless of their status, wealth, or power. It serves as a reminder that death is not selective and that all of us will eventually face it.

This profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is supported by various Quranic verses that highlight the transient nature of this worldly life and the inevitability of death. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:185),

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection.

This verse emphasizes the universal reality of death and reminds us that it is an experience that every soul will go through.

In Surah Al-Ankabut (29:64), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter - that is the [eternal] life, if only they knew.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of this worldly life and reminds us that our true abode is the Hereafter. It serves as a reminder that we should not become too attached to the fleeting pleasures of this world, but rather focus on preparing for the everlasting life to come.

Reflecting on this Hadith and the supporting Quranic verses, we are reminded of the impermanence of this world and the certainty of death. It serves as a wake-up call for us to prioritize our actions and strive for the eternal life in the Hereafter. We should not be deceived by the temporary pleasures and distractions of this world, but rather focus on building a strong relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the inevitable meeting with Him.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this worldly life and the strength to prioritize our actions accordingly. May He guide us on the straight path and grant us success in both this world and the Hereafter. Ameen.