Hadith #3789

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) is a impactful saying that highlights the irony of those who prioritize the construction and beautification of their temporary worldly dwellings while neglecting the preparation for their eternal abode in the Hereafter.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (I am amazed) "عَجِبْتُ" expresses the astonishment of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) towards a particular behavior. It signifies his surprise and disbelief at the actions of individuals who focus solely on the material aspects of this transient world, disregarding the everlasting life that awaits them.

The phrase (the one who builds his transient abode) "لِعامِرِ دارِ الفَناءِ" refers to those who invest their time, energy, and resources in constructing and adorning their worldly dwellings. They prioritize the accumulation of wealth, the pursuit of worldly pleasures, and the attainment of material possessions. However, they fail to recognize the temporary nature of this life and the fleeting nature of its pleasures.

On the other hand, the phrase (and abandons his Eternal Abode) "وتارِكِ دارِ البَقاءِ" highlights the negligence of individuals who neglect their spiritual development and fail to prepare for the everlasting life in the Hereafter. They disregard the importance of cultivating their souls, seeking knowledge, performing righteous deeds, and establishing a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46: (Quran 18:46)

Wealth and children are the 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 emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on enduring good deeds. It serves as a reminder that the pursuit of material wealth and worldly pleasures should not overshadow the pursuit of righteousness and the preparation for the eternal life.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 60, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states: (Quran 28:60)

And whatever thing you [people] have been given - it is [only for] the enjoyment of worldly life and its adornment. And what is with Allah is better and more lasting; so will you not use reason?

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly possessions and emphasizes that what is with Allah is far superior and everlasting. It urges us to reflect on the true purpose of our existence and to prioritize the pursuit of the Hereafter over the fleeting pleasures of this world.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a wake-up call for Muslims to reevaluate their priorities and to focus on the eternal abode rather than being consumed by the transient nature of this world. It urges us to strike a balance between our worldly responsibilities and our spiritual obligations, ensuring that we do not neglect our ultimate purpose in life.

By contemplating this Hadith and reflecting on the Quranic verses, we are reminded of the importance of investing in our spiritual growth, seeking knowledge, performing righteous deeds, and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter. We are encouraged to prioritize our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to strive for the everlasting rewards that await us.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true value of this world and the Hereafter. May He guide us to prioritize our actions and intentions in a manner that pleases Him and leads us to eternal success. And may we always remember the enlightening words of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to build our eternal abode while we reside in this transient world.