Hadith #3595

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he raises important questions about the purpose of our existence and the transient nature of worldly possessions. Let us delve into the meanings behind the words used in this Hadith and explore its deeper implications in light of the Quran.

The word (san'a) "صَنَعَ" in Arabic, which is translated as "do" in English, carries a broader connotation. It encompasses not only physical actions but also intentions, motivations, and consequences. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is inviting us to reflect on what our purpose should be in this world, which is merely a temporary abode for us.

The phrase (khuliqa lill-akhirah) "خُلِقَ للآخِرَةِ" means

created for the Hereafter.

It emphasizes that our ultimate purpose and destination lie in the eternal life of the Hereafter. As Muslims, we believe that this worldly life is a test, and our actions here determine our fate in the Hereafter. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging us to align our actions and intentions with the goal of attaining success in the Hereafter.

To emphasize the fleeting nature of worldly possessions, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) asks,

What can one do with wealth when it will be taken away from him shortly?

This highlights the reality that material wealth is temporary and transient. No matter how much wealth one accumulates, it will eventually be left behind in this world. Therefore, attaching excessive importance to worldly possessions is futile and distracts us from our true purpose.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes that even though wealth may be taken away, its accountability and consequences remain with us. This implies that we will be held accountable for how we acquired and utilized our wealth. The Quran supports this notion in several verses. For example, in Surah Al-Takathur (102:8-9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Then on that Day, you will surely be questioned about the blessings [you enjoyed].

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that our purpose in this world should be to strive for the Hereafter and not become overly attached to worldly possessions. We should prioritize actions that will benefit us in the eternal life to come. This does not mean that we should completely neglect our worldly responsibilities, but rather we should approach them with the understanding that they are means to fulfill our ultimate purpose.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us to focus on the everlasting rather than the temporary. By aligning our actions and intentions with the Hereafter, we can lead a purposeful and fulfilling life. Let us strive to use our wealth and resources in ways that benefit others and contribute to our spiritual growth, knowing that we will be held accountable for our choices.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true purpose of our existence and guide us on the path that leads to success in this world and the Hereafter.