Hadith #6404

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

In this profound hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he describes the nature of human beings and their journey in this world. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first word to focus on is (makhluqoon) "مَخْلُوقُونَ", which means "created." This emphasizes that human beings are brought into existence by the power and will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Quran affirms this in multiple verses, such as Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:12-14), where Allah says,

And certainly did We create man from an extract of clay. Then We placed him as a sperm-drop in a firm lodging. Then We made the sperm-drop into a clinging clot, and We made the clot into a lump [of flesh], and We made [from] the lump, bones, and We covered the bones with flesh; then We developed him into another creation. So blessed is Allah, the best of creators.

The second word to explore is (iqtidar) "اِقْتِداراً", which means "power" or "capability." This highlights the inherent potential and abilities that Allah has bestowed upon human beings. In Surah Al-Isra (17:70), Allah says,

And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

The third word to analyze is (marbooboon) "مَرْبُوبُونَ", which means

raised up with constraint.

This signifies that human beings are subjected to various challenges, trials, and limitations in their lives. In Surah Al-Balad (90:4-5), Allah says,

We have certainly created man into hardship. Does he think that never will anyone overcome him?

The fourth word to reflect upon is (iqtisar) "اِقْتِساراً", which means

made to die through pangs of death.

This highlights the reality of death and the inevitable end that every human being will face. In Surah Al-Anbiya (21:35), Allah says,

Every soul will taste death. And We test you with evil and with good as trial; and to Us you will be returned.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful saying encapsulates the entire journey of human existence. We are created by the power and will of Allah, endowed with capabilities and potential, but we are also faced with constraints and limitations. Ultimately, we will all experience the pangs of death, which serves as a reminder of the transient nature of this worldly life.

This hadith invites us to reflect upon the purpose of our existence and the responsibilities that come with it. It reminds us that our time in this world is limited and that we should strive to fulfill our duties towards Allah and His creation. It also teaches us to be humble and grateful for the blessings and abilities we have been granted, while recognizing the challenges and trials that come our way.

Moreover, this hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding the teachings of Islam. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words in this hadith reflect his deep understanding of the human condition. As Muslims, we should strive to follow in his footsteps and seek knowledge that will guide us in navigating the challenges of life and preparing for the inevitable journey towards death.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to comprehend the profound teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the strength to live our lives in accordance with the guidance of the Quran. May He bless us with the ability to fulfill our purpose in this world and grant us success in the hereafter.