Hadith #3058

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

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) responds to a question about his well-being by highlighting the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. He eloquently expresses the reality of our existence, emphasizing that no one can escape the passage of time or the certainty of death.

The Imam's response begins with the rhetorical question,

How would he be whom life is driving towards death?

This phrase draws our attention to the fact that life is constantly moving towards its ultimate end, which is death. It reminds us that no matter how healthy or prosperous we may be, death is an inescapable reality that awaits us all.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states,

Whose state of health can be changed to sickness at any moment.

This emphasizes the fragility of our physical well-being. Our health, which we often take for granted, can be swiftly replaced by illness or disease. This serves as a reminder for us to appreciate the blessings of good health and to be grateful to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for it.

The Imam further adds,

And who can be approached [by death] from his place of safety?!

This phrase highlights the unpredictability of death. It can come to us even when we feel secure and protected. It serves as a reminder that no matter how much wealth, power, or influence we may possess, we are ultimately vulnerable to the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The exegesis of this hadith can be further understood and supported by various verses from the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:185):

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 emphasizes the inevitability of death and the temporary nature of worldly life. It reminds us that the true reward and compensation for our deeds will be given in the Hereafter. Therefore, we should not become attached to the fleeting pleasures of this world, but instead focus on preparing for the eternal life to come.

Another verse that resonates with the message of this hadith is found in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:64):

And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter - that is the [eternal] life, if only they knew.

This verse reminds us that the distractions and attractions of this world are merely temporary and illusory. The true life, the eternal life, lies in the Hereafter. It serves as a reminder for us to prioritize our actions and intentions towards the attainment of the everlasting abode.

Reflecting on this hadith and the supporting Quranic verses, we are reminded of the impermanence of this worldly life and the certainty of death. It serves as a wake-up call for us to reflect on our priorities and to strive for the eternal life promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, provides us with a profound insight into the nature of our existence. He reminds us to be mindful of the fleeting nature of life and to prepare ourselves for the Hereafter. May we all take heed of this reminder and strive to live a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).