Hadith #3603

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the true essence of happiness in both this world and the Hereafter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, beautifully expresses that the happiest person in this world is the one who abandons it, while the happiest person in the Hereafter is the one who works diligently for it.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by analyzing its key words and their significance. The word (as'adu) "أسْعَدُ" refers to the happiest or most content. (annas) "النّاسِ" means people or individuals. (bid-dunya) "بِالدُّنيا" refers to this worldly life, encompassing its material possessions, desires, and temporary pleasures. (attariku laha) "التّارِكُ لَها" means the one who abandons or leaves it behind. (wa as'aduhum bil-akhirati) "وأسْعَدُهُمْ بِالآخِرَةِ" means the happiest of them with the Hereafter. (al-'amilo laha) "العامِلُ لَها" refers to the one who works or strives for it.

To understand the wise message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the transient nature of this worldly life and the importance of focusing on the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah says, (Quran 57:20)

But what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion?

This verse reminds us that the allure and pleasures of this world are temporary and illusory, and true happiness lies in seeking the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah describes the characteristics of the righteous, saying, (Quran 2:3-4)

Who believe in the unseen, establish prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them, and who believe in what has been revealed to you, [O Muhammad], and what was revealed before you, and of the Hereafter they are certain [in faith]

This verse highlights the importance of actively working towards the Hereafter through acts of worship, charity, and steadfast belief in the revelations of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder to Muslims of the true purpose of life. The happiest person in this world is not the one who accumulates wealth, power, or worldly possessions, but rather the one who recognizes the fleeting nature of this life and chooses to detach themselves from its distractions. By abandoning the pursuit of worldly desires, one can attain true contentment and inner peace.

On the other hand, the happiest person in the Hereafter is the one who actively works towards it. This entails striving to fulfill the obligations prescribed by Allah, engaging in acts of worship, and seeking knowledge to better understand and implement the teachings of Islam. By dedicating oneself to righteous deeds and seeking the pleasure of Allah, one can secure an eternal abode of bliss in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thoughtful words serve as a powerful motivation for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual journey and focus on the ultimate goal of attaining success in the Hereafter. By recognizing the temporary nature of this world and actively working towards the Hereafter, we can find true happiness and fulfillment in both realms.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the happiest person in this world is the one who abandons its fleeting pleasures, while the happiest person in the Hereafter is the one who diligently works towards it. By reflecting on the transient nature of this worldly life and prioritizing our efforts towards the eternal Hereafter, we can attain true happiness and everlasting success. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the ability to work for the Hereafter.