Hadith #11042

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of understanding the lessons and teachings that time presents to us. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, reminds us that those who comprehend the admonitions of time will not be content with merely having positive thoughts about their days.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (fahima) "فَهِمَ" means to comprehend or understand. It implies a deeper level of understanding that goes beyond mere superficial knowledge. The word (mawa'izha) "مَوَاعِظَ" refers to admonitions or lessons that can be derived from the events and experiences of life. And finally, the word (azzaman) "الزَّمَانِ" refers to time or the passing moments of our lives.

To further elucidate the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of reflecting upon the signs and lessons that can be found in the world around us. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (Quran 3:190)

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding

This verse reminds us that the signs of Allah's creation are meant to be pondered upon and understood.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Jathiyah, Allah says, (Quran 45:5)

And in the alternation of night and day and [in] what Allah sends down from the sky of provision and gives life thereby to the earth after its lifelessness and [in His] directing of the winds are signs for a people who reason

Here, Allah highlights the signs of His provision and the cycles of life and death as lessons for those who possess reasoning and understanding.

When we apply these Quranic teachings to the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that it is not enough to simply have positive thoughts about our days. Rather, we must actively seek to comprehend the lessons and admonitions that time presents to us. This requires us to reflect upon the events and experiences of our lives, extracting wisdom and guidance from them.

For example, when faced with a difficult situation, we should not simply brush it off with positive thoughts. Instead, we should strive to understand the underlying lessons and how we can grow and improve from them. Similarly, when we experience moments of joy and success, we should not become complacent. Rather, we should reflect upon the blessings and responsibilities that come with such moments, using them as opportunities for gratitude and further growth.

By understanding the admonitions of time, we become more conscious of our actions and decisions. We become aware of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of utilizing our time wisely. We become motivated to constantly seek knowledge, improve ourselves, and contribute positively to society. This understanding leads to a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to actively seek understanding and wisdom from the events and experiences of their lives. By comprehending the lessons and admonitions of time, we are able to transcend mere positive thoughts about our days and instead strive for personal growth, spiritual development, and a meaningful existence. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to comprehend the teachings of time and live our lives in accordance with His guidance.