Hadith #9624

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

ما أدْرَكَ المَجْدَ مَنْ فاتَهُ الجِدُّ۔

This can be translated as:

One who lacks diligence does not attain distinction.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (majd) "مَجْدَ" refers to honor, glory, or distinction. It signifies achieving a high status or position due to one's efforts and dedication. The word (fatahu) "فاتَهُ" means to miss or fail to attain something. And finally, the word (al-jidd) "الجِدُّ" refers to diligence, earnestness, or seriousness in one's actions and endeavors.

To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of diligence and earnestness in various verses. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says: (Quran 33:24)

And that Allah may reward the truthful for their truth and punish the hypocrites if He wills or accept their repentance. Indeed, Allah is ever Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the reward that comes with sincerity and truthfulness. Those who are diligent in their pursuit of truth and righteousness will be rewarded by Allah. On the other hand, those who lack diligence and sincerity may face consequences for their actions.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Mumtahanah: (Quran 60:1)

O you who have believed, do not take My enemies and your enemies as allies, extending to them affection while they have disbelieved in what came to you of the truth, having driven out the Prophet and yourselves [only] because you believe in Allah, your Lord. If you have come out for jihad in My cause and seeking means to My approval, [take them not as friends]. You confide to them affection, but I am most knowing of what you have concealed and what you have declared. And whoever does it among you has certainly strayed from the soundness of the way.

This verse highlights the importance of sincerity and diligence in matters of faith. It warns against forming alliances with those who oppose the truth and have driven out the Prophet (ﷺ) and the believers. It reminds us that true success lies in seeking the approval of Allah and being steadfast in His cause.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of the Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that without diligence and earnestness, we cannot attain distinction or honor. This applies to all aspects of life, whether it be in our religious practices, personal development, or professional endeavors.

If we lack diligence in our prayers, for example, merely going through the motions without true focus and sincerity, we will not attain the spiritual elevation and closeness to Allah that comes with true devotion. Similarly, in our personal and professional lives, without putting in the necessary effort and dedication, we cannot expect to achieve excellence or stand out among others.

The consequences of lacking diligence are evident in both this world and the Hereafter. In this life, we may miss out on opportunities for growth, success, and recognition. In the Hereafter, our lack of diligence may result in a diminished reward and a lower status in the sight of Allah.

Therefore, as Muslims, we must strive to embody the qualities of diligence and earnestness in all aspects of our lives. We should approach our religious obligations with sincerity and focus, seeking to attain the pleasure of Allah. In our personal and professional pursuits, we should strive for excellence, putting in the necessary effort and dedication to achieve distinction.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be diligent and earnest in their actions. By embodying these qualities, we can attain distinction and honor in the sight of Allah and in the eyes of others. May Allah grant us the strength and guidance to be diligent in our pursuit of excellence in all aspects of our lives.