Hadith #7743

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ عَمِلَ لِلْمَعادِ ظَفِرَ بِالسَّدادِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who works for the Hereafter attains success through the right [course].

Let us delve into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us analyze the key words in this Hadith. The word (zafira) "ظَفِرَ" means to attain victory or success, while (as-sadad) "السَّدادِ" refers to the right path or the correct course of action. Therefore, this Hadith emphasizes that those who strive for the Hereafter with sincerity and righteousness will achieve success by following the right path.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3),

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This ayah highlights the importance of faith, righteous actions, and guiding others towards truth and patience. It emphasizes that success lies in working for the Hereafter and following the right path.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And of them are those who say, 'Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

This verse highlights the balanced approach that Muslims should adopt. It encourages seeking goodness in both this world and the Hereafter, acknowledging the importance of striving for success in both realms.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions towards the Hereafter. It urges us to focus on the eternal life rather than being solely preoccupied with worldly matters. By doing so, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

When we work for the Hereafter, we engage in acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, giving charity, and performing Hajj. We also strive to purify our hearts from negative traits and cultivate virtues like patience, gratitude, and compassion. These actions not only bring us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but also have a positive impact on our relationships, communities, and society as a whole.

The consequences of working for the Hereafter are profound. Firstly, it brings us closer to attaining the ultimate success of Paradise. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:10-11),

Indeed, successful are the believers, who are humble in their prayers.

By prioritizing the Hereafter, we secure our place in Paradise and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Secondly, working for the Hereafter helps us navigate the challenges and trials of this world. When we face difficulties, we find solace and strength in our faith and the knowledge that our efforts are not in vain. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

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

This reassurance gives us the motivation to persevere and seek success through the right path.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter in our lives. It serves as a call to action, urging us to align our intentions, actions, and goals with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we not only attain success in the Hereafter, but also experience the blessings and tranquility in this world.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to work for the Hereafter and guide us on the right path. May He shower His mercy upon us and grant us success in both this world and the Hereafter. Ameen.