مَنْ عاشَ ماتَ۔
One who lives, dies.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Lifestyle)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and 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: "مَنْ عاشَ ماتَ۔" This concise statement can be translated into English as
One who lives, dies.
Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound saying in light of the Quran.
The word (aasha) "عاشَ" in Arabic means "to live" or "to be alive." It refers to the state of being alive, experiencing the various aspects of life, and engaging in worldly affairs. On the other hand, the word (mata) "ماتَ" means "to die" or "to pass away." It signifies the end of life, the departure from this world, and the transition into the realm of the hereafter.
To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:35):
Every soul shall taste death.
This verse emphasizes the inevitability of death for every living being. Regardless of our status, wealth, or power, death is an undeniable reality that awaits us all. It serves as a reminder that our time in this world is limited, and we must prepare for the eternal life that awaits us after death.
Another verse that sheds light on the meaning of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Imran (3:185):
Every soul shall taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection.
This verse highlights the concept of accountability and recompense that awaits us in the hereafter. Our actions in this worldly life have consequences that will be fully realized in the afterlife. Thus, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that our time in this world is temporary, and we must strive to live a life of righteousness and prepare for the eternal life to come.
Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that it carries a enlightening message. It reminds us that our existence in this world is fleeting, and the true essence of life lies in our preparation for the hereafter. While we may be engrossed in the pursuit of worldly desires, it is crucial to remember that our ultimate destination is beyond this transient realm. We must prioritize our actions and strive to lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, and his words carry great weight. Through this concise statement, he reminds us of the impermanence of this world and the importance of preparing for the eternal life to come. It serves as a call to action, urging us to reflect on our purpose in this world and strive for righteousness in all aspects of our lives.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)
One who lives, dies
serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of this world and the ultimate reality of death. It prompts us to reflect on our actions and priorities, and to strive for a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to live a life of righteousness and grant us success in the hereafter.
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