Hadith #9995

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who is missed by the arrow of death is fettered by old age.

This amazing Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inevitability of death and the limitations of old age. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding.

The word (sahm) "سَهْمُ" in Arabic refers to an arrow, and (al-maniyyah) "المَنِيَّةُ" means death. The phrase (qayyadahu al-hiram) "قَيَّدَهُ الهِرَمُ" can be translated as

fettered by old age.

This Hadith draws a parallel between the arrow of death and the constraints of old age. Just as an arrow strikes its target, death eventually reaches everyone, but those who are spared from death are instead bound by the limitations and challenges of old age.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the certainty of death and the transient nature of this worldly life. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:57),

Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.

This verse reminds us that death is an inevitable reality that every individual will face, regardless of their age or status.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection.

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of this worldly life and highlights the importance of preparing for the Hereafter, where true justice and recompense will be granted.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the reality of death and the limitations of old age. It urges us to make the most of our time in this world, utilizing our youth and energy to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and serve humanity. As we age, our physical abilities may decline, but our spiritual growth and connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) should continue to flourish.

This Hadith also highlights the wisdom and knowledge possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His profound understanding of the human condition and the transient nature of life is a testament to his deep insight and spirituality. As Muslims, we should strive to emulate his example and seek knowledge that enlightens our hearts and guides our actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the certainty of death and the limitations of old age. It urges us to reflect upon the transient nature of this worldly life and prioritize our spiritual growth and connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the reality of death and the motivation to make the most of our time in this world.