Hadith #9968

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

عَجِبْتُ لِمَنْ خافَ البَياتَ فَلَمْ يَكُفَّ۔

This Hadith is a profound reflection on the nature of human existence and serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (bayat) "بَياتَ" refers to the ambush or sudden attack. In this context, it symbolizes death, which can strike unexpectedly and without warning. The word (khaafa) "خافَ" means to fear or be afraid. And the word (lam yakuffa) "لَمْ يَكُفَّ" translates to "does not desist" or "does not stop."

To further comprehend the message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Mulk, verse 2:

He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.

This verse highlights the purpose of our existence, which is to be tested by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Life and death are part of this test, and it is through our actions and deeds that we are evaluated. Therefore, fearing death is a natural response, as it reminds us of the accountability we will face in the Hereafter.

In Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 57, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

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

This verse emphasizes the certainty of death for every individual. Regardless of our status, wealth, or power, death is an inevitable reality that awaits us all. It is a reminder that we are mere mortals and that our time in this world is limited. Therefore, it is crucial to reflect on the purpose of our existence and strive to fulfill our obligations to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and our fellow human beings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazement in this Hadith stems from observing individuals who fear death, recognizing its potential to strike at any moment, yet fail to take the necessary steps to prepare for the Hereafter. It is a call to action, urging Muslims to reflect on their priorities and make conscious efforts to improve their spiritual state.

This Hadith serves as a reminder that the fear of death should not paralyze us but rather motivate us to lead a righteous and purposeful life. It should encourage us to seek forgiveness, engage in acts of worship, and strive for self-improvement. By acknowledging the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death, we can redirect our focus towards the eternal life in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of recognizing the fleeting nature of life and the certainty of death. It urges us to reflect on our actions, priorities, and spiritual state. By embracing this reality and striving to live a life of righteousness, we can prepare ourselves for the Hereafter and attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to heed this enlightening message and lead a life that is pleasing to Him.