Hadith #9952

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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 inevitability of death and the fact that no one can escape it. The word (taridu) "طَرِيدُ" in Arabic refers to someone who is fleeing or running away. In this context, it signifies that death is constantly pursuing us, and no matter how much we try to avoid it, we cannot escape its grasp. The word (mawt) "مَوْتِ" means death, and it is a reminder of the transient nature of this worldly life.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is supported by several Quranic verses that emphasize the certainty and inevitability of death. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:57):

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

This verse clearly states that every individual will experience death, and there is no escape from it. It is a universal truth that applies to all human beings, regardless of their status, wealth, or power.

Another verse that supports the concept of death being inescapable is found in Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:8):

Say, 'Indeed, the death from which you flee - indeed, it will meet you. Then you will be returned to the Knower of the unseen and the witnessed, and He will inform you about what you used to do.'

This verse reminds us that no matter how much we try to avoid death or run away from it, it will eventually catch up to us. It is a reality that we cannot evade, and it serves as a reminder of our ultimate return to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), who has knowledge of everything, both seen and unseen.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for all Muslims. It compels us to reflect upon the transient nature of this world and the certainty of our eventual meeting with death. This reflection should motivate us to prioritize our actions and strive for righteousness in order to prepare for the Hereafter.

The recognition that death is inevitable should serve as a catalyst for positive change in our lives. It should encourage us to seek forgiveness for our sins, mend broken relationships, and fulfill our obligations towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and our fellow human beings. It should also instill a sense of urgency in our pursuit of knowledge and the acquisition of good deeds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. His statement about the inescapability of death is a testament to his deep understanding of the realities of life. By reminding us of the fleeting nature of this world and the certainty of death, he encourages us to live a life of purpose and righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims of the inevitability of death. It urges us to reflect upon the transient nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. By recognizing the certainty of death, we are motivated to prioritize our actions, seek forgiveness, and strive for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to live a life that is pleasing to Him, and may He bless us with a good end in this world and the Hereafter.