Hadith #3836

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) serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature and insignificance of this worldly life. Let us delve into the profound meanings behind the words of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore the supporting verses from the Quran.

The Hadith begins with the words

Verily this world of yours

which refers to the materialistic and temporary aspects of our existence. The word (دُنْيَا) "world" in Arabic signifies the temporal and fleeting nature of this life. It is a reminder that the pleasures and possessions of this world are transitory and hold no true value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states that this world is

more lowly in my view

which emphasizes his profound understanding and detachment from the materialistic allurements of this life. His words highlight the insignificance and worthlessness of worldly pursuits in comparison to the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

To further comprehend the depth of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, let us reflect upon the analogy he employs. He compares this world to

the [dry] bone of a pig in the hand of a leper.

This analogy vividly portrays the repulsiveness and impurity associated with worldly attachments.

The mention of the

dry bone of a pig

symbolizes something devoid of any benefit or sustenance. Just as a dry bone holds no nourishment, the material possessions and desires of this world ultimately fail to provide true fulfillment and contentment. They are merely temporary and fleeting, leaving one empty and unsatisfied.

Furthermore, the reference to a "leper" highlights the impurity and contamination associated with worldly attachments. A leper is afflicted with a disease that causes physical and social isolation. Similarly, excessive attachment to worldly possessions and desires can lead to spiritual and moral degradation, isolating one from the path of righteousness.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20) that the life of this world is nothing more than a fleeting enjoyment:

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like a rain (Ghayth) thereof: the growth of which pleases the tillers; then it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers). And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.

This verse beautifully encapsulates the temporary nature of worldly pursuits and the ultimate futility of chasing after material possessions. It serves as a reminder that true success lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life of the Hereafter.

In Surah Al-Taghabun (64:15), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the deceptive nature of worldly attachments:

Your wealth and your children are only a trial, whereas Allah! With Him is a great reward (Paradise).

This verse emphasizes that the worldly possessions and relationships we hold dear are merely tests from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). They should not distract us from our ultimate purpose of seeking His pleasure and striving for the eternal rewards of Paradise.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize the eternal over the temporary. It urges us to detach ourselves from the allurements of this world and focus on the spiritual and moral aspects of our existence. By recognizing the insignificance and transience of worldly pursuits, we can strive for a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and work towards attaining the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to live our lives in accordance with this profound understanding.