Hadith #6771

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنِ اعْتَزَلَ حَسُنَتْ زَهادَتُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who secludes himself, his indifference towards the pleasures of this world becomes strong.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (i'tazala) "اعْتَزَلَ" means to seclude oneself or to withdraw from society. (hasunat) "حَسُنَتْ" refers to the pleasures and attractions of this worldly life. And (zahadatuhu) "زَهادَتُهُ" signifies one's indifference or detachment from these worldly pleasures.

To understand the impactful message of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly pleasures and the illusion they create. The pursuit of material possessions and worldly desires can distract us from our ultimate purpose in life, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seclusion in this Hadith. By secluding oneself from the distractions of the world, one can strengthen their indifference towards worldly pleasures. This does not mean complete isolation from society, but rather taking time for self-reflection, introspection, and spiritual growth. It is a means to detach oneself from the materialistic mindset that often consumes us.

The Quran further supports this concept of seclusion in Surah Al-An'am (6:121), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not incline toward those who do wrong, lest you be touched by the Fire, and you would not have other than Allah any protectors; then you would not be helped.

This verse reminds us to be cautious of the company we keep and to avoid the influence of those who engage in wrongful actions. Seclusion can serve as a protective measure, shielding us from negative influences and allowing us to focus on our spiritual development.

When one secludes themselves, they are able to reflect upon the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and the true purpose of their existence. This reflection leads to a strengthening of their indifference towards these pleasures. They become less attached to material possessions, wealth, and the pursuit of worldly desires. Instead, their focus shifts towards seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving for success in the Hereafter.

The consequences of seclusion and developing indifference towards worldly pleasures are profound. It leads to a greater sense of contentment and inner peace, as one is no longer constantly chasing after materialistic gains. It allows for a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and a stronger commitment to fulfilling His commands.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can see the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the importance of seclusion in our lives. By withdrawing from the distractions of the world, we can strengthen our indifference towards worldly pleasures and focus on our spiritual growth. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to practice seclusion in a balanced manner and guide us towards seeking His pleasure above all else.