Hadith #9957

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "المنايا تقطع الآمال" which translates to

Deaths cut off hopes

in English. This impactful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries deep meaning and can be further understood through the teachings of the Quran.

The word (al-manaaya) "المنايا" in the Hadith refers to deaths or the end of life. It signifies the termination of all worldly hopes and desires. Death is an inevitable reality that every human being must face, regardless of their status, wealth, or power. It is a reminder that our time in this world is limited and that we must prepare for the eternal life to come.

The word (taqta') "تقطع" means to sever or cut off. In the context of the Hadith, it implies that death severs all hopes and aspirations that one may have had in this world. It serves as a reminder that the pursuit of worldly desires and material possessions is ultimately futile and temporary.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:64),

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 emphasizes the temporary nature of this world and highlights the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come. It reminds us that the pursuit of worldly desires can distract us from our ultimate purpose and the preparation for the Hereafter.

Another verse that complements the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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.

This verse further emphasizes the transient nature of worldly pursuits and the temporary satisfaction they provide. It serves as a reminder that all worldly possessions and achievements will eventually fade away, leaving us with nothing but our deeds and preparations for the Hereafter.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we are reminded of the importance of prioritizing our spiritual growth and preparing for the eternal life. It encourages us to focus on actions that have lasting value and to invest in our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the Hereafter.

Understanding that death cuts off all hopes in this world should motivate us to strive for righteousness, seek forgiveness for our sins, and engage in acts of worship and charity. It should serve as a reminder to detach ourselves from the materialistic pursuits of this world and instead focus on building a strong connection with our Creator.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Deaths cut off hopes

highlights the transient nature of worldly desires and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. It serves as a reminder to prioritize our spiritual growth and invest in actions that have lasting value. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to live a life that is pleasing to Him and grant us success in the Hereafter.