Hadith #9983

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 حَيّ مَوْتٌ۔" This can be translated into English as,

For every living thing there is death.

Let us delve into the essence of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (hayy) "حَيّ" in this Hadith refers to any living being, whether it is a human, an animal, or even a plant. It encompasses all forms of life that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has created. The word (mawt) "مَوْتٌ" means death, the cessation of life. It is the inevitable end that awaits every living creature.

This Hadith reminds us of the transient nature of life in this world. It serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how strong, wealthy, or influential a person may be, they are not exempt from the reality of death. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran, (Quran 3:185)

Every soul will taste death

This verse emphasizes the universality of death and the fact that it is an inescapable fate for all living beings.

Furthermore, this Hadith highlights the equality of all living creatures in the face of death. Regardless of our differences in wealth, status, or power, death is the ultimate equalizer. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran, (Quran 3:185)

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

This verse emphasizes that death is not the end, but rather a transition to the Day of Resurrection, where everyone will be held accountable for their actions.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the temporary nature of our existence in this world. It should motivate us to prioritize our actions and strive for righteousness, as we do not know when death will come knocking at our door. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran, (Quran 15:99)

And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty (i.e., death)

This verse encourages us to remain steadfast in our worship and obedience to Allah until our last breath.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of preparing for the inevitable meeting with our Creator. Death is not the end, but rather a transition to the eternal life in the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in the Quran, (Quran 29:57)

Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned

This verse emphasizes that death is a return to Allah, where we will be held accountable for our deeds.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "لِكُلِّ حَيّ مَوْتٌ۔" reminds us of the transient nature of life in this world and the inevitability of death. It emphasizes the equality of all living beings in the face of death and serves as a motivation to prioritize our actions and strive for righteousness. It also reminds us to prepare for the meeting with our Creator and the eternal life in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to reflect upon the reality of death and guide us to live a life that is pleasing to Him.