Hadith #2062

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

مَنْ كَثُرَ احْتِرَاسُهُ سَلِمَ غَيْبُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose carefulness increases, his unseen [future] becomes sound.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ihtirāsuhu) "احْتِرَاسُهُ" refers to one's carefulness, vigilance, and attentiveness towards their actions and decisions. It implies being cautious and mindful of the consequences of one's choices. The word (salima) "سَلِمَ" means to be safe, secure, and protected. And (ghaybuhu) "غَيْبُهُ" refers to the unseen or the future that is yet to unfold.

To comprehend the essence of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:18),

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our actions and their consequences in the future. It urges us to be cautious and aware of the choices we make, as they have an impact on our unseen future.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Taghabun (64:11), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

No disaster strikes except by permission of Allah. And whoever believes in Allah - He will guide his heart. And Allah is Knowing of all things.

This verse highlights the concept of divine decree and the belief that everything that happens in our lives is by the permission of Allah. By being careful and mindful in our actions, we align ourselves with the guidance of Allah, and He, in turn, protects and guides our hearts towards the right path.

Now, let us reflect on the meaning of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, is teaching us the importance of being cautious and mindful in our daily lives. When we increase our carefulness and attentiveness towards our actions, decisions, and interactions, we create a shield of protection for our unseen future. By being conscious of the consequences of our choices, we can avoid pitfalls, hardships, and regrets.

For example, imagine a person who is careful and vigilant in their financial matters. They budget wisely, avoid unnecessary expenses, and save for the future. As a result, their unseen future becomes sound and secure. They are protected from financial difficulties and are able to provide for themselves and their loved ones.

Similarly, if we are mindful of our words and actions, we can avoid causing harm to others and damaging our relationships. By being cautious in our interactions, we can maintain harmony and peace in our lives. This carefulness extends to all aspects of our lives, including our spiritual journey. When we are mindful of our deeds and strive to please Allah, our unseen future becomes sound, and we are protected from the consequences of our sins.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of increasing our carefulness and vigilance in all aspects of our lives. By being mindful of our actions and decisions, we create a shield of protection for our unseen future. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the significance of being cautious and aware of the consequences of our choices. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to be mindful and careful in all that we do, and may He protect our unseen future.