Hadith #9934

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 a path that lies ahead, a path that is long and arduous, filled with severe hardships. The Imam emphasizes the importance of good exploration and acquiring the necessary provisions to navigate this challenging journey successfully.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The word (path) "طَريقًا" signifies a specific route or course that one must follow. It implies a journey towards a destination, which in this context refers to the journey of life. The word (that) "ذا" emphasizes the significance and uniqueness of this path. It is not just any path, but one that holds great importance and requires careful consideration.

The phrase (covers a long distance) "مَسافَة بَعيدَة" highlights the length and duration of this journey. It suggests that the path ahead is not short-lived or easily traversed. It requires patience, perseverance, and endurance. This phrase serves as a reminder to Muslims that life is not a sprint but a marathon, and we must be prepared for the long haul.

The term (severe hardships) "مَشَقَّة شَديدَة" draws attention to the challenges and difficulties that one may encounter along this path. It implies that the journey of life is not without its trials and tribulations. These hardships can manifest in various forms, such as physical, emotional, or spiritual struggles. It is a reminder that life is a test, and we must be prepared to face and overcome these challenges with resilience and faith.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states, (you cannot do without good exploration)

ولاغِنى بِكَ مِنْ حُسْنِ الاِرْتيادِ

Here, the Imam emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge and seeking guidance to navigate this path successfully. The phrase (good exploration) "حُسْنِ الاِرْتيادِ" refers to the act of seeking knowledge, understanding, and guidance to make informed decisions and choices in life. It highlights the significance of continuous learning and personal growth as essential tools for traversing the journey of life.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, (and acquiring the necessary amount of provisions)

وقَدْرِ بَلاغِكَ مِنَ الزّادِ

This phrase emphasizes the importance of being prepared and equipped with the necessary provisions to face the challenges and hardships of life. Just as a traveler requires provisions for a long and arduous journey, we, as Muslims, need to equip ourselves with knowledge, faith, and good deeds to sustain and nourish our souls throughout our journey in this world.

To further understand the profound wisdom of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 286:

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that although the path ahead may be challenging, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not burden us with more than we can handle. It reassures us that with faith, perseverance, and reliance on Allah, we can overcome any hardship that comes our way.

In Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support throughout our journey in life. It reminds us to ask Allah for strength, steadfastness, and sustenance to navigate the challenges and hardships that lie ahead.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging Muslims to prepare themselves for the journey of life. He emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, understanding, and guidance to make informed decisions and choices. Additionally, he highlights the significance of being equipped with faith, good deeds, and reliance on Allah to face the challenges and hardships that may arise.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to approach life with wisdom, perseverance, and reliance on Allah. It encourages us to be proactive in seeking knowledge, understanding, and guidance to navigate the path ahead successfully. By doing so, we can overcome the challenges and hardships that come our way and strive towards attaining success in this world and the hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom, strength, and guidance to navigate the journey of life with steadfastness and success. May He bless us with the ability to acquire knowledge, understanding, and good deeds to face the challenges and hardships that lie ahead. And may He grant us the provision and sustenance needed to sustain our souls on this path.