Hadith #505

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لِكُلِّ أجَل حُضُورٌ۔" which translates to

For every appointed time there is an arrival.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and can be understood in light of the teachings of the Quran.

The word (ajal) "أجَل" in this Hadith refers to an appointed time or a predetermined period. It signifies that everything in this world has a specific time or duration assigned to it by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This includes the lifespan of individuals, the rise and fall of nations, and the occurrence of significant events.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am (6:67),

For every nation is a specified term. So when their time comes, they will not remain behind an hour, nor will they precede [it].

This verse emphasizes that every nation has a predetermined lifespan, and once their appointed time arrives, their existence cannot be prolonged or hastened.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Hajj (22:47), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And they urge you to hasten the punishment. But Allah will never fail in His promise. And indeed, a day with your Lord is like a thousand years of those which you count.

This verse highlights that even though people may desire immediate results or outcomes, Allah's timing is perfect and cannot be rushed. He fulfills His promises at the appointed time, which may differ from our expectations.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that everything in this world, whether it is a moment of joy or a moment of hardship, has a designated time of arrival. This understanding helps us navigate through the challenges of life with patience and trust in Allah's divine plan.

For example, when faced with a difficult situation, such as a loss or a setback, we may feel overwhelmed and impatient for relief. However, this Hadith teaches us that there is a time for every hardship to end and for ease to arrive. It encourages us to have faith in Allah's wisdom and to persevere with patience, knowing that relief will come at its appointed time.

Likewise, when we are experiencing moments of happiness and success, this Hadith reminds us to be grateful and to recognize that these blessings are also temporary. It encourages us to use these moments wisely, to benefit ourselves and others, and to prepare for the challenges that may lie ahead.

In the context of our spiritual journey, this Hadith serves as a reminder that our time in this world is limited. It urges us to make the most of our lives by striving to fulfill our purpose and seeking closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It motivates us to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and perform righteous deeds, knowing that our time on earth is a precious opportunity that should not be wasted.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that everything in this world has an appointed time of arrival. It reminds us to trust in Allah's divine timing and to navigate through life's challenges with patience and perseverance. By reflecting on this profound wisdom, we can lead a purposeful and meaningful life, seeking Allah's pleasure and preparing for the eternal abode. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to live in accordance with His divine plan.