Hadith #9476

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Time wears out the bodies, renews hopes, brings death closer and takes aspirations further away.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of life and the inevitable passage of time. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first word to be examined is "time" or "dahr" in Arabic. Dahr refers to the passing of time and its effects on individuals and societies. In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the fleeting nature of time in Surah Al-Asr: (Quran 103:1-2)

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss

This verse emphasizes the importance of utilizing time wisely and not squandering it, as it is a precious resource given to us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The next phrase in the Hadith is

wears out the bodies

or "yukhliq al-abdan" in Arabic. This phrase highlights the physical deterioration that occurs over time. The human body, no matter how strong or healthy, is subject to the effects of aging and decay. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of this reality in the Quran: (Quran 90:4-13)

And We have certainly created man in hardship. Does he think that never will anyone overcome him? He says, 'I have spent wealth in abundance.' Does he think that no one has seen him? Have We not made for him two eyes? And a tongue and two lips? And have shown him the two ways? But he has not broken through the difficult pass. And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass? It is the freeing of a slave or feeding on a day of severe hunger

This verse highlights the struggles and limitations of the human body, reminding us of our mortality and the need to prepare for the Hereafter.

The phrase "renews hopes" or "yujaddid al-amal" in the Hadith signifies the rejuvenation of aspirations and goals. Time brings with it new opportunities and the potential for growth and improvement. In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us of His mercy and forgiveness, giving us hope for a better future: (Quran 39:53)

Say, 'O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful'

This verse reminds us that no matter how far we may have strayed, there is always hope for redemption and a fresh start.

The phrase "brings death closer" or "yudni al-maniyyah" in the Hadith highlights the inevitability of death. As time passes, death draws nearer, reminding us of the temporary nature of our existence in this world. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the certainty of death and the need to prepare for the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut: (Quran 29:57)

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

This verse serves as a reminder that death is an inescapable reality and should motivate us to lead a righteous life, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Lastly, the phrase

takes aspirations further away

or "yuba'idu al-umniyyah" in the Hadith signifies the distancing of our aspirations and desires as time passes. This highlights the importance of setting our priorities straight and focusing on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter rather than being consumed by worldly pursuits. The Quran warns us against being overly attached to the material world in Surah Al-Hadid: (Quran 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 worldly pursuits are temporary and fleeting, while the rewards of the Hereafter are everlasting.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the transient nature of life and the passage of time. It urges us to reflect on the brevity of our existence and the need to prioritize our actions and aspirations. By recognizing the fleeting nature of this world, we can strive to make the most of our time, renew our hopes in Allah's mercy, prepare for the inevitable reality of death, and focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to live our lives in accordance with His will.