Hadith #9980

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) draws our attention to the inevitability of death and the constant reminders of its presence in our lives. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this statement and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (death) "مَوْتَ" signifies the end of our worldly existence and the transition to the eternal life in the Hereafter. It is a reality that every human being will face, regardless of their status, wealth, or power. The word (its signs) "آثارُهُ" refers to the various reminders of death that surround us, such as the passing of loved ones, the aging process, and the decay and destruction that we witness in the world.

The Quran emphasizes the certainty of death and the importance of remembering it as a means of preparing for the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:57),

Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.

This verse serves as a reminder that death is an inescapable reality and that we will all be held accountable for our actions in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly life and the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come. It reminds us that our true reward and recompense will be given in the Hereafter, and that the pleasures and attractions of this world are merely temporary and illusory.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us not to forget death, as its constant reminders serve as a wake-up call to the reality of our existence. These reminders prompt us to reflect upon the purpose of our lives and to strive for righteousness and good deeds. They remind us to prioritize our relationship with Allah and to seek His forgiveness and mercy.

When we remember death, it motivates us to make the most of our time in this world and to engage in acts of worship and obedience to Allah. It encourages us to be mindful of our actions and to strive for self-improvement. It reminds us to detach ourselves from the materialistic pursuits of this world and to focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

For example, when we witness the death of a loved one, it serves as a powerful reminder of our own mortality and the fragility of life. It prompts us to reflect on the purpose of our existence and to reevaluate our priorities. It motivates us to mend broken relationships, seek forgiveness, and strive for a meaningful and purposeful life.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of remembering death and its signs. It urges us to reflect upon the transient nature of this world and to prepare for the eternal life to come. By keeping death in our consciousness, we are motivated to live a life of righteousness, seeking the pleasure of Allah and striving for the ultimate success in the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to remember death and to live our lives in accordance with His guidance.