Hadith #11418

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: "الْيَأْسُ غِنَاءٌ حَاضِرٌ". This Hadith can be translated into English as:

Loss of hope [in this world] is a ready affluence.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran.

The word (al-ya's) "الْيَأْسُ" refers to the loss of hope or despair. It is a state of feeling helpless and giving up on the mercy and blessings of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Despair can be detrimental to one's spiritual and emotional well-being, as it leads to a sense of hopelessness and negativity.

On the other hand, the word (ghina') "غِنَاءٌ" means affluence or richness. It signifies a state of abundance and contentment, both materially and spiritually. It is important to note that this affluence is not limited to material wealth, but also encompasses inner peace, tranquility, and satisfaction.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully states that loss of hope in this world is a ready affluence. This means that when a person loses hope in worldly desires and attachments, they become spiritually rich and content. This is because they shift their focus from the temporary pleasures of this world to the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support this impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:86):

Those are the ones who have bought the life of this world [in exchange] for the Hereafter, so the punishment will not be lightened for them, nor will they be aided.

This verse highlights the consequences of being attached to the worldly life and neglecting the Hereafter. Those who prioritize worldly gains over spiritual growth will face the consequences of their choices. They will not receive any assistance or relief from the difficulties they encounter in this world.

In Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and relationships. While they may bring temporary joy and adornment to our lives, they are not the true source of happiness and fulfillment. The enduring good deeds, which are rooted in faith and righteousness, are what truly matter in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and hold the promise of eternal reward.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us of the importance of maintaining hope in the face of adversity and difficulties. It encourages us to shift our focus from worldly pursuits to the pursuit of spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we detach ourselves from the materialistic desires of this world and place our trust in Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) plan, we find true contentment and inner peace.

This Hadith also serves as a reminder that true affluence lies in the richness of faith, good deeds, and a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It teaches us that the pursuit of worldly wealth and possessions should not overshadow our pursuit of spiritual growth and the Hereafter.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Loss of hope [in this world] is a ready affluence,

reminds us of the importance of maintaining hope and trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) even in the face of difficulties. It encourages us to prioritize our spiritual well-being over worldly gains, as true affluence lies in the richness of faith and a strong connection with our Creator. May we all strive to cultivate hope and contentment in our hearts, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to detach ourselves from the temporary allurements of this world.