Hadith #3594

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he describes the current state of the world and its impending demise. Let us delve into the meanings of the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (tasarramat) "تَصَرَّمَتْ" means that the world has elapsed or come to an end. It signifies that the world has reached its final stages and is approaching its ultimate conclusion. The word (adhanat) "آذَنَتْ" refers to the world announcing its own expiration, indicating that the signs of its decay and decline are evident. The word (binqida) "باِنْقِضَاء" means that the world is on the verge of expiry, emphasizing its imminent end.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that the good in this world has been shunned, meaning that righteousness and virtuous deeds are neglected and disregarded. The word (tanakkara) "تَنَكَّرَ" signifies the rejection and abandonment of what is known to be good and righteous. This highlights the moral and spiritual decline that has taken hold of society.

The Imam then describes how the novelty of this world has become old. The word (jadeedoha) "جَدِيدُهَا" refers to the newness and freshness of the world, which has now faded away. This implies that the allure and fascination of worldly pursuits have lost their appeal and significance.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions that the fat of the world has become lean. The word (sameenoha) "سَمِينُهَا" refers to the richness and abundance of worldly possessions, which have now turned into worthlessness and insignificance. This highlights the transitory nature of material wealth and the emptiness it brings when pursued excessively.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20) that the life of this world is merely a fleeting enjoyment, while the hereafter is the true abode of eternal happiness. Similarly, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us that the worldly possessions and pleasures will perish, but the reward of the righteous in the hereafter will be everlasting.

The decline and decay of the world, as described by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), can be witnessed in various aspects of our lives today. We see the erosion of moral values, the neglect of spirituality, and the obsession with materialism. The pursuit of worldly pleasures and possessions has led to a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction, as they fail to provide true contentment and fulfillment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the fleeting nature of this world and urges us to focus on the eternal and everlasting rewards of the hereafter. This Hadith serves as a wake-up call for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth, seek knowledge, and engage in acts of righteousness. It encourages us to detach ourselves from the allure of worldly pursuits and instead invest in actions that will benefit us in the eternal life to come.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the transient nature of this world. It urges us to redirect our efforts towards the pursuit of righteousness and the attainment of eternal happiness in the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to heed this advice and lead a life that is pleasing to Him.