Hadith #3144

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 Arabic phrase (ma akhsara man laysa lahu fi al-akhirati naseeb)

ما أخْسَرَ مَنْ لَيْسَ لَهُ فِي الآخِرَةِ نَصيبٌ

is a enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) that highlights the great loss of those who have no share or portion in the rewards of the Hereafter. This statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of striving for a place in the Hereafter and the consequences of neglecting it.

To understand the depth and significance of this statement, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185:

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 temporary nature of this worldly life and the ultimate reality of the Hereafter. It reminds us that the true compensation and reward for our actions will be given on the Day of Resurrection. Therefore, those who do not have a share in the Hereafter are indeed great losers, as they will miss out on the eternal rewards and blessings prepared for the righteous.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on enduring good deeds. While wealth and children may bring temporary happiness and adornment to this life, it is the good deeds that we accumulate and carry with us to the Hereafter that truly matter. Those who neglect their spiritual growth and fail to invest in the Hereafter will be at a great loss, as they will have nothing to show for their worldly pursuits when they stand before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions with the Hereafter in mind. It urges us to reflect on the consequences of our choices and the potential loss we may face if we neglect our spiritual development.

For example, imagine a person who spends their entire life accumulating wealth, pursuing worldly pleasures, and neglecting their spiritual obligations. They may achieve temporary success and enjoy a life of luxury, but when they pass away, they will realize the true emptiness of their pursuits. On the Day of Resurrection, they will find themselves devoid of any share in the Hereafter, and the loss they experience will be immeasurable.

On the other hand, consider a person who dedicates their life to seeking knowledge, performing acts of worship, and serving humanity. They may face challenges and hardships in this world, but their focus on the Hereafter will bring them immense rewards and blessings. Their share in the Hereafter will be a source of eternal joy and fulfillment.

Imam Ali's statement also highlights the importance of having a long-term perspective in our actions and intentions. It encourages Muslims to strive for excellence in all aspects of life, not just for immediate gratification but for the everlasting rewards that await them in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's statement serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions with the Hereafter in mind. It highlights the great loss that awaits those who neglect their spiritual development and fail to secure a share in the rewards of the Hereafter. By reflecting on the consequences of our choices and striving for excellence in all aspects of life, we can ensure that we are not among the great losers mentioned in this impactful Hadith. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to prioritize the Hereafter and attain success in both worlds.