Hadith #4583

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,

Renunciation of worldly pleasures is the foundation of certitude.

Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (zuhd) "زُّهْدُ" in Arabic refers to renunciation or detachment from worldly pleasures and desires. It is the act of voluntarily abstaining from the materialistic pursuits that distract us from our spiritual journey. Zuhd is not about rejecting the blessings of this world, but rather about recognizing their transient nature and prioritizing the eternal rewards of the hereafter.

The word (asas) "أساسُ" means foundation or basis. It signifies that renunciation of worldly pleasures is not just a peripheral aspect of faith, but rather a fundamental principle upon which certitude is built. Certitude, or (al-yaqeen) "اليَقينِ", refers to a firm and unwavering belief in the truth of Islam.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of zuhd and its connection to certitude. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly pleasures and the illusion they create. It reminds us that the pursuit of materialistic gains is merely a temporary amusement, while the true purpose of life lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and preparing for the eternal life to come. Renouncing worldly pleasures helps us detach from the delusions of this world and focus on the ultimate reality.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Tawbah (9:38), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, what is [the matter] with you that, when you are told to go forth in the cause of Allah, you adhere heavily to the earth? Are you satisfied with the life of this world rather than the Hereafter? But what is the enjoyment of worldly life compared to the Hereafter except a [very] little.

This verse admonishes those who prioritize worldly comforts over striving in the cause of Allah. It reminds us that the pleasures of this world are insignificant compared to the everlasting bliss of the Hereafter. By renouncing worldly pleasures, we demonstrate our commitment to the higher purpose of pleasing Allah and attaining eternal salvation.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound impact of zuhd on our spiritual journey. When we detach ourselves from the distractions and temptations of this world, we create space for certitude to flourish within our hearts. Zuhd allows us to prioritize our relationship with Allah and seek His pleasure above all else.

Practicing zuhd does not mean living in seclusion or abandoning our responsibilities. Rather, it means cultivating a mindset of detachment and moderation, where we use the blessings of this world as a means to draw closer to Allah, rather than being consumed by them. It means recognizing that true success lies in the contentment of the heart and the pursuit of righteousness.

By renouncing worldly pleasures, we free ourselves from the chains of materialism and develop a deeper understanding of the transient nature of this life. This understanding motivates us to invest our time, wealth, and energy in actions that have lasting value in the sight of Allah. It inspires us to seek knowledge, engage in acts of charity, and strive for moral excellence.

The consequences of embracing zuhd are profound. It leads to a heightened sense of gratitude for the blessings we have been bestowed with, as we recognize them as gifts from Allah rather than entitlements. Zuhd also fosters a sense of contentment and inner peace, as we detach ourselves from the constant pursuit of worldly desires and find solace in the remembrance of Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that renunciation of worldly pleasures is the foundation of certitude. By practicing zuhd, we detach ourselves from the transient nature of this world and prioritize our relationship with Allah. This mindset allows us to cultivate certitude, deepen our faith, and strive for eternal success. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to embrace zuhd and attain certitude in our lives.