Hadith #3680

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, "الدُّنْيا مَعْبَرَةُ الآخِرَةِ" which translates to

This world is the corridor to the Hereafter.

This thought-provoking saying holds deep significance and provides us with valuable insights into the purpose and nature of our worldly existence.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of its key words. "الدُّنْيا" refers to the temporal world, the material realm in which we currently reside. It encompasses everything we experience in our daily lives, including our possessions, relationships, and worldly pursuits. "مَعْبَرَةُ" can be understood as a transitional space or a passage. It signifies that the world we live in is not an end in itself, but rather a means to reach a greater destination. Finally, "الآخِرَةِ" refers to the Hereafter, the eternal life that awaits us after death, where we will be held accountable for our actions in this world.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support and reinforce the message conveyed in this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 45,

And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds.

This verse beautifully illustrates the transient nature of worldly life, emphasizing that it is merely a passing phase.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 64, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 highlights the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and distractions, urging us to prioritize the everlasting life of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that our time in this world is limited and that our ultimate goal should be to prepare for the Hereafter. It encourages us to view the world as a transitional phase, a corridor that leads us to our final destination. Just as a corridor is not a place to dwell in, but rather a means to reach a desired room, this world should not consume us, but rather serve as a means to attain eternal bliss in the Hereafter.

Understanding the world as a corridor to the Hereafter has profound implications on our actions and priorities. It reminds us to detach ourselves from the materialistic pursuits and transient pleasures of this world. Instead, we should focus on cultivating our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving to perform righteous deeds that will benefit us in the Hereafter.

This perspective also helps us navigate the challenges and trials of life. When faced with difficulties, we can find solace in the knowledge that they are temporary and that they serve as tests and opportunities for growth. By enduring hardships with patience and seeking Allah's guidance, we can traverse the corridor of this world and emerge stronger and closer to our ultimate destination.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that this world is not our final abode, but rather a transient passage leading us to the everlasting life of the Hereafter. It encourages us to prioritize our spiritual journey and to view the world as a means to attain eternal bliss. By understanding and internalizing this profound wisdom, we can navigate the challenges of this world with wisdom and purpose, ultimately securing success in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to live our lives in accordance with this understanding and bless us with success in both this world and the Hereafter.