Hadith #3618

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble family, and his righteous companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he eloquently describes the state of this world and the imminent arrival of the Hereafter. Let us delve into the meaning of the important words used in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (dunya) "دُنْيَا" refers to the temporal world, the material realm in which we currently reside. It is a place of trials, tests, and fleeting pleasures. The word (adbarat) "أَدْبَرَتْ" is derived from the root word (dabara) "دَبَرَ", which means to turn back or retreat. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that the world has reached its peak and is now in a state of decline, indicating its transitory nature.

The word (wa'adhanat) "وَآذَنَتْ" is derived from the root word (adhina) "أَذِنَ", which means to announce or declare. Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is metaphorically stating that the world has announced its departure, signaling its impending end. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that the allure and attractions of this world are temporary and should not distract us from our ultimate purpose.

On the other hand, the word (akhirah) "آخِرَةَ" refers to the Hereafter, the eternal life that awaits us after death. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the Hereafter has (aqbalat) "أَقْبَلَتْ", meaning it has advanced or drawn near. This indicates that the Hereafter is not a distant event but rather something that is approaching rapidly. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to prepare for the eternal life to come.

The word (ashraft) "أَشْرَفَتْ" is derived from the root word (sharafa) "شَرَفَ", which means to become prominent or to emerge. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is conveying that the Hereafter is about to emerge, emphasizing its certainty and inevitability. This serves as a call for Muslims to prioritize their actions and focus on preparing for the everlasting life that awaits them.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the temporary nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah says, (Quran 18:46)

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and emphasizes the importance of focusing on righteous actions that will benefit us in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah says, (Quran 28:77)

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters

This verse reminds us to strike a balance between our worldly responsibilities and our spiritual obligations. While we should not neglect our worldly duties, we must always prioritize the pursuit of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a wake-up call for Muslims to reflect upon the transitory nature of this world and to prioritize their actions accordingly. It reminds us that the Hereafter is approaching rapidly and that we must prepare ourselves for the eternal life to come. By focusing on righteous deeds and seeking the pleasure of Allah, we can ensure a successful transition from this temporary world to the everlasting Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to understand the true nature of this world and to prioritize our actions accordingly. May He bless us with the ability to prepare for the Hereafter and grant us success in both worlds. And may peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble family, and his righteous companions.