Hadith #4869

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, "رُبَّ ساهِر لِراقِد۔" This can be translated as,

Many a person is awake so that another can sleep.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries deep wisdom and insight into the dynamics of human relationships and the sacrifices made for the well-being of others.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (sahir) "ساهِر" refers to someone who is awake, vigilant, and watchful. It signifies a state of alertness and attentiveness. On the other hand, (raqid) "راقِد" refers to someone who is asleep, at rest, or in a state of tranquility.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is aware of our capabilities and does not place upon us a burden that is beyond our capacity to bear. Similarly, in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?

Drawing from these verses, we can understand that the challenges and responsibilities we face in life are not arbitrary or without purpose. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has designed our lives in such a way that we are interconnected and reliant on one another. Each person has their own unique set of circumstances and struggles, and it is through these challenges that we grow and develop as individuals.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the selflessness and sacrifice that exists within human relationships. It reminds us that while some individuals may be awake, working tirelessly to fulfill their responsibilities and support others, there are others who benefit from their efforts and are able to rest and find solace. This could be seen in various aspects of life, such as a parent sacrificing their sleep to care for their child, a teacher staying up late to prepare lessons for their students, or a healthcare worker working long hours to ensure the well-being of their patients.

This Hadith also serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and appreciation for those who sacrifice their own comfort for the sake of others. It encourages us to recognize and acknowledge the efforts of those who work behind the scenes, often unnoticed, to ensure the well-being and ease of others. By expressing gratitude and recognizing their contributions, we not only uplift their spirits but also foster a sense of unity and compassion within our communities.

Furthermore, this Hadith invites us to reflect on our own roles and responsibilities in society. It prompts us to examine how we can contribute to the well-being of others and alleviate their burdens. It encourages us to be mindful of the needs of those around us and to extend a helping hand whenever possible. By doing so, we can create a harmonious and supportive environment where everyone's needs are met, and no one is left to bear their burdens alone.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),

Many a person is awake so that another can sleep,

emphasizes the interconnectedness of human relationships and the sacrifices made for the well-being of others. It reminds us of the importance of gratitude, compassion, and selflessness in our interactions with one another. By reflecting on the wise message of this Hadith and implementing its teachings in our lives, we can strive towards building a society that is characterized by empathy, support, and unity. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody these noble qualities.