Hadith #3563

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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) emphasizes the transient nature of this world and advises Muslims to adopt a moderate approach in seeking its pleasures. The Arabic word (dawlan) "دُوَلٌ" refers to the concept of turns or cycles, indicating that the world is not constant but rather goes through periods of change and fluctuation. This understanding is further reinforced by the word (dawlatuka) "دُولَتُكَ", which can be translated as "your turn" or "your time."

To comprehend the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the importance of seeking moderation in our pursuit of them. For instance, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah says,

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...

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and warns against excessive attachment to them.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah states,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.

This verse encourages Muslims to seek the rewards of the Hereafter while also acknowledging the permissibility of enjoying the blessings of this world. It emphasizes the need for balance and moderation in our pursuit of worldly gains.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice to be patient until our turn comes is also supported by the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153), Allah says,

O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse reminds us of the importance of patience in facing the challenges and trials of life. It teaches us that our desires and aspirations may not be fulfilled immediately, but with patience and reliance on Allah, we will eventually attain what is meant for us.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can understand that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is advising Muslims to adopt a balanced approach towards worldly pursuits. While it is permissible to seek the blessings of this world, we should not become overly attached to them or engage in excessive competition for wealth and status. Instead, we should prioritize the pursuit of the Hereafter and be patient in waiting for our turn to attain success and prosperity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound knowledge and understanding of the Quran enabled him to provide such insightful guidance to the Muslim ummah. His wisdom continues to inspire and guide us in navigating the challenges of this world while keeping our focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek moderation in our pursuit of worldly pleasures and the patience to wait for our turn to come. May we strive to prioritize the Hereafter and seek the eternal blessings that Allah has promised to the righteous. Ameen.