Hadith #7592

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Verily your breaths are portions of your life, so do not use them up except in the obedience that brings you closer [to Allah].

This thought-provoking saying emphasizes the importance of utilizing our limited time in this world wisely and in a manner that draws us nearer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (anfasak) "أنْفَاسَكَ" refers to one's breaths or the act of breathing. It symbolizes the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. (ajza') "أجْزَاءُ" means portions or parts, indicating that our lives are composed of these breaths. Thus, every breath we take is a precious and irreplaceable segment of our existence.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us not to (tufniha) "تُفْنِهَا", which means to waste or squander. This implies that we should not expend our breaths in vain or frivolous pursuits that do not bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Instead, we should utilize our breaths in acts of obedience and worship that have a meaningful impact on our spiritual growth and draw us nearer to our Creator.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:115),

Did you think that We created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?

This verse reminds us that our existence in this world is not a mere game or amusement. We have been created with a purpose, and our actions should reflect this understanding.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:64), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 serves as a reminder that the pleasures and distractions of this world are temporary, while the true and everlasting life is in the Hereafter. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize our actions and utilize our breaths in a manner that will benefit us in the eternal life to come.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we realize that every breath we take is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and a precious opportunity to draw closer to Him. It compels us to evaluate how we spend our time and energy, ensuring that our actions align with the obedience and worship that bring us nearer to our Creator.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, imparts this advice to guide us in making the most of our lives. By utilizing our breaths in acts of obedience, such as prayer, recitation of the Quran, charity, and acts of kindness, we not only fulfill our purpose but also strengthen our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The consequences of heeding this advice are immense. By prioritizing obedience and utilizing our breaths wisely, we cultivate a deep sense of spirituality and mindfulness in our daily lives. We become more conscious of our actions and strive to align them with the teachings of Islam. This consciousness leads to a life of purpose, fulfillment, and tranquility, as we constantly seek to draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all that we do.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the value of time and the importance of utilizing our breaths in acts of obedience that bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It urges us to reflect on our actions and prioritize those that have a lasting impact on our spiritual growth and our eternal life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to make the most of our breaths and lead a life of obedience and devotion.