Hadith #8362

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "ثَمَرَةُ الفَوْتِ نَدامَةٌ۔" This can be translated as,

The fruit of loss [of opportunity] is regret.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom contained within this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (thamaratu) "ثَمَرَةُ" refers to the fruit or outcome of something. It symbolizes the consequence or result that arises from a particular action or decision. In this context, it represents the outcome of missed opportunities or chances that have passed us by.

The term (al-fawt) "الفَوْتِ" refers to the loss or failure to seize an opportunity. It signifies the act of missing out on something valuable or beneficial. It could be an opportunity for personal growth, spiritual development, or worldly success.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the fruit of such loss is (nadama) "نَدامَةٌ", which translates to regret. Regret is a feeling of sorrow or remorse that arises when we realize the value of what we have lost or missed. It is a sentiment that often accompanies the recognition of wasted potential or the realization that we could have made better choices.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of seizing opportunities and making the most of our time in this world. 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 verse highlights the fleeting nature of time and the urgency to utilize it wisely. It reminds us that if we fail to make the most of our opportunities, we will be at a loss. The regret mentioned in the Hadith is a consequence of this loss.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith is Surah Al-Munafiqun (63:9), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, let not your wealth and your children divert you from remembrance of Allah. And whoever does that - then those are the losers.

This verse warns us against being distracted by worldly possessions and responsibilities, which can cause us to miss out on the remembrance of Allah and the opportunities for spiritual growth. The regret mentioned in the Hadith is a reflection of the loss experienced when we prioritize worldly matters over our relationship with Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the consequences of missed opportunities and the regret that follows. This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the choices we make and to seize every opportunity for growth, both in this world and in the Hereafter.

We should reflect on the Hadith and ask ourselves if we are making the most of the opportunities presented to us. Are we utilizing our time and resources wisely? Are we prioritizing our spiritual development and seeking the pleasure of Allah? By pondering over these questions, we can strive to avoid the regret that stems from missed opportunities and instead, lead a life of purpose and fulfillment.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize and seize the opportunities that come our way. May He protect us from the regret of missed chances and guide us to make choices that are pleasing to Him. Ameen.