Hadith #3891

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

One whose concern [and effort] is for this world, his wretchedness and misery will be prolonged on the Day of Resurrection.

This Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their focus and efforts on the eternal life to come rather than being consumed by the temporary pleasures and pursuits of this world.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (hammahu) "هَمَّهُ" refers to one's concern, preoccupation, or worry. It signifies the state of being completely absorbed in worldly matters, constantly striving for material gains and pleasures. The word (shaqā'u) "شَقاؤُهُ" means wretchedness or misery, indicating the state of suffering and distress. And the word (ghammuhu) "غَمُّهُ" refers to grief or sorrow, highlighting the emotional and psychological anguish experienced by those whose focus is solely on worldly pursuits.

To further comprehend the impactful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the fleeting nature of this world and the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says: (Quran 3:14)

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

This verse highlights the allure and temporary nature of worldly possessions and pleasures. It reminds us that while these things may bring temporary enjoyment, they cannot compare to the eternal rewards and blessings that await us in the Hereafter. Another verse in Surah Al-Kahf states: (Quran 18:45)

And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allah is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability.

This verse beautifully illustrates the transient nature of worldly life. Just as rainwater nourishes the earth and causes vegetation to flourish, it eventually dries up and dissipates. Similarly, the pleasures and pursuits of this world eventually fade away, leaving behind only remnants. It is a reminder that our focus should be on the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter, rather than being consumed by the temporary and fleeting nature of this world.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound warning and motivation for Muslims to prioritize their efforts and concerns towards the Hereafter. Those who are solely preoccupied with worldly matters will face prolonged wretchedness and misery on the Day of Resurrection. This is because their actions and intentions were driven by temporary gains and pleasures, rather than seeking the pleasure and satisfaction of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can draw practical examples from our daily lives. If our primary concern is accumulating wealth, status, or material possessions, we may neglect our spiritual development and fail to fulfill our obligations towards Allah and our fellow human beings. This imbalance can lead to a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction, even if we achieve worldly success. On the other hand, if we prioritize our faith, good deeds, and the pursuit of knowledge, we will find contentment and fulfillment, both in this world and the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their focus and efforts on the eternal life to come. By shifting our concerns and efforts towards the Hereafter, we can attain true success and everlasting happiness. May Allah guide us to the right path and grant us the wisdom to prioritize our actions and intentions in accordance with His pleasure.