Hadith #9987

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,

If death could be bought, the affluent would have surely bought it.

This wise utterance highlights the inevitability of death and the fact that no amount of wealth or power can prevent its arrival. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (death) "مَوْتَ" in this Hadith refers to the cessation of life, the departure of the soul from the physical body. Death is an undeniable reality that every human being will face, regardless of their social status or material possessions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 3:185)

Every soul will taste death

This verse emphasizes the universality of death, as it is an experience that every individual must go through.

The phrase (could be bought) "يُشْتَرى" highlights the futile nature of attempting to escape death through material means. It implies that if it were possible to purchase an exemption from death, the wealthy and powerful would spare no expense in doing so. However, this Hadith serves as a reminder that no amount of wealth or worldly possessions can buy immortality. Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in the Quran, (Quran 62:8)

Say, 'Indeed, the death from which you flee - indeed, it will meet you'

This verse emphasizes that no matter how much one tries to evade death, it will inevitably catch up to them.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reflection on the transitory nature of life and the importance of focusing on the eternal. It reminds us that no matter how much wealth or power one possesses, it cannot grant them eternal life. Instead, it encourages us to prioritize our actions and intentions in this world, as they will determine our fate in the hereafter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the story of Qarun mentioned in the Quran. Qarun was a wealthy man who arrogantly believed that his wealth and possessions were a sign of his superiority. However, Allah (عَزَّ وَجَلَّ) caused the earth to swallow him and his wealth as a punishment for his arrogance and disbelief. This story serves as a warning against the delusion of worldly wealth and the importance of humility and gratitude.

Furthermore, this Hadith encourages us to reflect on the purpose of our existence. It reminds us that our time in this world is limited and that we should strive to use it wisely. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us in the Quran, (Quran 63:10)

And spend [in the way of Allah] from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous'

This verse emphasizes the importance of utilizing our wealth and resources for the betterment of ourselves and others before it is too late.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the inevitability of death and the futility of attempting to escape it through material means. It encourages us to prioritize our actions and intentions in this world, as they will determine our fate in the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to reflect on the transient nature of life and to strive for righteousness in all our endeavors.