Hadith #10289

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May 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,

اِحْذَرُوا نِفارَ النِّعَمِ فَما كُلُّ شارِد بِمَرْدُود۔

This Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the slipping away of blessings, as not everything that runs away comes back.

Let us delve into the meaning of some important words in this Hadith. The word (nifar) "نِفَارَ" refers to the act of slipping away or running away. It signifies the loss or disappearance of blessings. The word (ni'am) "نِّعَمِ" refers to blessings, favors, or bounties bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encompasses both material and spiritual blessings, such as health, wealth, knowledge, and guidance.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us to be cautious of the slipping away of these blessings. It is a reminder that we should not take them for granted or become negligent in preserving and appreciating them. The phrase (fa ma kullu shārid bi-mardūd)

فَما كُلُّ شارِد بِمَرْدُود

emphasizes the fact that not everything that runs away or slips away will come back to us. It serves as a reminder that once blessings are lost, they may not be regained easily, if at all.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Anfal (8:26),

And remember when you were few and oppressed in the land, fearing that people might abduct you, but He sheltered you, supported you with His victory, and provided you with good things - that you might be grateful.

This verse highlights the importance of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It serves as a reminder that when we appreciate and acknowledge the blessings, we are more likely to preserve and cherish them.

Another verse that aligns with the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:152), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me.

This verse emphasizes the importance of remembrance and gratitude towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we are grateful for the blessings we have been granted, we are more likely to preserve and value them.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that it serves as a reminder to be mindful of the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It urges us to appreciate and value these blessings, whether they are material or spiritual. By doing so, we can avoid the loss and disappearance of these blessings. It also teaches us the importance of gratitude, as gratitude leads to preservation and appreciation of the blessings.

Moreover, this Hadith highlights the need for vigilance and awareness in our lives. We should not become complacent or negligent in safeguarding the blessings we have been given. Just as a running river may carry away valuable possessions, the slipping away of blessings can have far-reaching consequences. Therefore, we must be proactive in preserving and cherishing the blessings bestowed upon us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious of the slipping away of blessings. It urges us to appreciate and value the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), as not everything that runs away comes back. By being grateful and vigilant, we can preserve and cherish these blessings, leading to a more fulfilling and grateful life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize and appreciate His blessings and protect them from slipping away.