Hadith #3671

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

This world is [obtained] by convention, the Hereafter is [gained] by merit.

Let us delve into the meaning of this beautiful saying and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (itifaq) "اتِّفاقِ" in the Hadith refers to an agreement or a mutual understanding. It implies that worldly success and prosperity are often achieved through mutual agreements and conventions established by individuals or societies. This could include social contracts, legal systems, economic agreements, and other forms of human interaction. However, it is important to note that this worldly success is temporary and transient.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the temporary nature of this life. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like a rain whose vegetation pleases the tillers; then it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. And in the Hereafter, there is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.

The word (al-akhirah) "اَلآخِرَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the Hereafter, the eternal life that awaits us after death. It is a realm where the consequences of our actions in this world are realized and where true justice prevails. The Hereafter is not obtained through conventions or agreements but is earned through our individual merits and righteous deeds.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of righteous actions and deeds in numerous verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 4:57)

But those who believe and do righteous deeds - We will admit them to gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide forever. For them therein are purified spouses, and We will admit them to deepening shade.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims that while worldly success and conventions may have their place in this life, they should not become the sole focus of our efforts. We must strive for righteousness and merit, as it is through our actions and deeds that we will attain success in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and understanding of Islam. His statement in this Hadith reflects his deep insight into the nature of this world and the Hereafter. He reminds us that while worldly conventions may bring temporary benefits, they should not distract us from the ultimate goal of attaining success in the Hereafter through righteous actions.

As Muslims, we should reflect on this Hadith and strive to strike a balance between our worldly responsibilities and our spiritual obligations. We should not become overly attached to the material possessions and transient pleasures of this world, but instead focus on building our merits and performing righteous deeds that will lead us to success in the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this world and the Hereafter, and guide us to live a life that is pleasing to Him. May He bless us with the ability to prioritize our actions and intentions, seeking His pleasure above all else. And may He grant us success in both this world and the Hereafter.