Hadith #3938

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) emphasizes the importance of recognizing the transient nature of this world and renouncing its temporary pleasures. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (sur'ata) "سُرْعَةَ" in the Hadith refers to the swiftness or rapidity of the passing of this worldly life. It highlights the fleeting nature of our existence in this world and the brevity of our time here. This word serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and to prioritize the eternal life of the hereafter.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us in the Quran about the impermanence of this world and the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse beautifully illustrates the transient nature of worldly life. Just as the rain brings temporary growth to plants, which eventually wither and become debris, the pleasures of this world are fleeting and will eventually fade away. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to recognize the true nature of this world and not become attached to its temporary attractions.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), where Allah says,

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse emphasizes the inevitability of death and the reality that the true reward and compensation for our actions will be given in the hereafter. The life of this world is described as the "enjoyment of delusion," highlighting the illusory nature of worldly pleasures. Muslims who understand this reality will strive to detach themselves from the allure of this world and focus on preparing for the everlasting life to come.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions in light of the transient nature of this world. By recognizing the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures, we are motivated to seek the pleasure of Allah and strive for the eternal rewards of the hereafter.

This understanding has profound consequences in our lives. It encourages us to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and perform good deeds that will benefit us in the afterlife. It also helps us maintain a balanced approach to worldly possessions and pleasures, understanding that they are temporary and should not distract us from our ultimate purpose.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) allows us to develop a deeper appreciation for the true purpose of our existence. It reminds us to prioritize our relationship with Allah and to constantly strive for righteousness and self-improvement. By renouncing the fleeting pleasures of this world, we can attain a higher level of spiritual enlightenment and prepare ourselves for the everlasting bliss of the hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize the transient nature of this world and the strength to detach ourselves from its temporary attractions. May He guide us to prioritize our actions and intentions in light of the eternal life to come. Ameen.