Hadith #9924

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.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to all Muslims to be mindful of the inevitability of death and to prepare for it in the best possible manner. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying in light of the Quran.

The word (iḥḏari) "اِحْذَرِ" translates to "beware" or "be cautious." It signifies the importance of being aware of the reality of death and its implications. Death is an undeniable truth that every soul shall face, regardless of their status or wealth. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 3:185)

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then advises us to (aḥsin lahu al-istiʿdād) "أحْسِنْ لَهُ الإسْتِعْدادَ", which means to "be adequately prepared" for death. This preparation encompasses both our physical and spiritual readiness. Just as we strive to excel in our worldly affairs, it is imperative that we also excel in preparing for our ultimate meeting with our Creator.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of preparing for the Hereafter in the Quran, stating, (Quran 2:197)

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety).

This provision of piety includes performing righteous deeds, seeking forgiveness, and purifying our hearts from worldly attachments.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by stating, (tasʿad bi munqalabik) "تَسْعَدْ بِمُنْقَلَبِكَ", which can be translated as

you will be happy in your place of [final] return.

This highlights the ultimate goal of our preparation for death - to attain eternal happiness and success in the Hereafter.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us in the Quran, (Quran 2:25)

And give good tidings to those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have gardens [in Paradise] beneath which rivers flow.

The believers who have prepared for death and lived a life of righteousness will be rewarded with eternal bliss and tranquility in Paradise.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we realize that death is not something to be feared, but rather an opportunity to attain eternal happiness. By being mindful of death and adequately preparing for it, we can live a purposeful life, constantly striving to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seeking His forgiveness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the transient nature of this world and the importance of prioritizing our eternal life. Let us take heed of his advice and strive to be constantly prepared for the inevitable return to our Creator.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to be mindful of death, to prepare for it diligently, and to attain eternal happiness in the Hereafter. May He bless us all with the ability to live a life of righteousness and piety.