Hadith #4571

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "أوَّلُ الزُّهدِالتَّزَهُّدُ۔" This can be translated as,

The first step of asceticism is renouncing worldly pleasures.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. "Zuhd" refers to asceticism or detachment from worldly desires and possessions. It is a state of contentment and moderation, where one does not become overly attached to material possessions or indulge in excessive worldly pleasures. "Tazahhud" means to renounce or give up. It signifies a deliberate act of abstaining from worldly pleasures and focusing on the spiritual aspect of life.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, 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 reminds us that the pleasures and attractions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They are like a passing rain that brings temporary growth but eventually withers away. The true essence of life lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

Another verse that supports the concept of asceticism is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But among them is he who says, 'Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking goodness in both this world and the Hereafter. It emphasizes the balance between worldly needs and spiritual aspirations. Asceticism, as mentioned in the Hadith, does not mean complete abandonment of worldly responsibilities and pleasures. Rather, it encourages moderation and detachment from excessive indulgence, while still fulfilling our obligations and enjoying the permissible blessings of this world.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the first step towards asceticism is to renounce worldly pleasures. By doing so, we free ourselves from the distractions and attachments that hinder our spiritual growth. This renunciation allows us to focus on our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and prioritize the eternal over the temporary.

When we detach ourselves from the allure of material possessions, we become more content and grateful for what we have. We develop a deeper understanding of the transitory nature of worldly pleasures and the importance of seeking lasting fulfillment in the Hereafter. This mindset helps us maintain a balanced approach to life, where we neither become slaves to our desires nor neglect our responsibilities.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the significance of asceticism and renouncing worldly pleasures. It encourages us to seek moderation and detachment from excessive indulgence, while still fulfilling our obligations and enjoying the permissible blessings of this world. By doing so, we can attain a state of contentment, gratitude, and spiritual growth, ultimately preparing ourselves for the eternal life in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us on this path and grant us success.