Hadith #4992

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 importance of seeking repentance without delay, as delaying it puts one in great danger when faced with the sudden arrival of death. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (tawbah) "تَوْبَةِ" in the Hadith refers to repentance, which is a sincere turning back to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) after committing a sin. It involves acknowledging one's wrongdoing, feeling remorse, and resolving to abstain from that sin in the future. Repentance is a fundamental aspect of Islam and is highly encouraged in the Quran.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa, verse 17:

Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.

This verse highlights the significance of repentance in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), as it is a means of purifying oneself and seeking His forgiveness.

Furthermore, in Surah Az-Zumar, verse 53, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us that it is never too late to seek repentance:

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.'

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the danger of delaying repentance until the arrival of death. Death is an inevitable reality that can come upon us suddenly, without any warning. If we delay seeking repentance, we risk facing death in a state of sin and disobedience, which is a grave danger for our souls.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-An'am, verse 61:

And He is the subjugator over His servants, and He sends over you guardian-angels until, when death comes to one of you, Our messengers take him, and they do not fail [in their duties].

Reflecting on this verse, we understand that the angels appointed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) are present with us throughout our lives, recording our deeds and protecting us. However, when death approaches, they fulfill their duty by taking our souls. If we have not sought repentance and rectified our actions, we risk facing the consequences of our sins when the angels come to take our souls.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to be proactive in seeking repentance and rectifying our actions before it is too late. We should not delay in turning back to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seeking His forgiveness. By doing so, we protect ourselves from the dangers that lie in wait when death arrives unexpectedly.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for all Muslims to be vigilant in seeking repentance and rectifying their actions. It emphasizes the importance of not delaying repentance, as death can come upon us suddenly and without warning. Let us take heed of this advice and strive to seek repentance sincerely and promptly, so that we may attain the mercy and forgiveness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the strength to seek His forgiveness before it is too late.