Hadith #9964

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 and noble family, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "سَبَبُ الفَوْتِ المَوْتُ۔" This can be translated as,

Death is the cause of loss.

In order to understand the essence behind this statement, let us delve into the important words and concepts within this Hadith.

Firstly, let us reflect upon the word (fawt) "فَوْتِ", which can be translated as "loss" or "deprivation." It refers to the absence or deprivation of something valuable or beneficial. In the context of this Hadith, it signifies the loss of opportunities, blessings, and the potential for growth and development.

Next, we come to the word (mawt) "مَوْتُ", which means "death." Death is an inevitable reality that every human being will face. It is the cessation of life in this world and the transition to the eternal realm. Death is a profound and transformative event that has a profound impact on our existence.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am (6:61),

And He is the subjugator over His servants, and He sends over you guardian angels until, when death comes to one of you, Our messengers take him, and they do not fail [in their duties].

This verse highlights the reality of death and the role of the angels in taking the souls of the deceased. It emphasizes the certainty and inevitability of death, as well as the fact that it is a divine decree beyond human control. Death is a reminder of our mortality and the transient nature of this worldly life.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:99-100), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Until, when death comes to one of them, he says, 'My Lord, send me back that I might do righteousness in that which I left behind.' No! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.

This verse highlights the regret and longing for another chance to do good deeds that some individuals experience at the moment of death. However, it also emphasizes that death is a final and irreversible event. There is no turning back once the soul has departed from the body. This serves as a reminder to seize the opportunities for righteousness and goodness in this worldly life before it is too late.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. He states that death is the cause of loss. This statement encapsulates the reality that death marks the end of opportunities for worldly achievements and the accumulation of material possessions. It reminds us that the true value and purpose of life lie in preparing for the eternal life to come.

When we reflect on the transient nature of this worldly life, we realize that our time here is limited and that every moment is precious. Death serves as a reminder to prioritize our spiritual growth, to seek forgiveness for our sins, and to strive for righteousness. It prompts us to reflect on our actions and to make the most of the opportunities presented to us.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith that death is not to be feared, but rather embraced as a catalyst for spiritual growth and preparation for the eternal life. It urges us to reflect on our priorities and to invest our time and efforts in actions that will bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and secure our place in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that death is the cause of loss, highlighting the transient nature of this worldly life and the importance of prioritizing our spiritual growth and preparation for the eternal life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to reflect upon this impactful message and to make the most of our time in this world.