Hadith #3819

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

كَفى مُخْبِراً عَمّا بَقِيَ مِنَ الدُّنيا ما مَضى مِنْها۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

That which has passed from this world suffices as an informer of what remains of this world.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (kafa) "كَفَى" means "suffices" or "is enough." It implies that the knowledge and lessons gained from the past are sufficient to guide us in the present and future. The word (mukhbiran) "مُخْبِرًا" means "an informer" or "a witness." It signifies that the events and experiences of the past serve as witnesses to the realities of the present and future.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes the importance of reflecting on history and learning from it. The Quran also encourages us to ponder over the stories of the past nations and take lessons from them. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 12:111)

Indeed in their stories, there is a lesson for men of understanding

Similarly, in Surah Al-Hashr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 59:2)

And whatever struck you of disaster - it was for what your hands have earned; but He pardons much

The past serves as a teacher, guiding us towards the path of righteousness and cautioning us against repeating the mistakes of those who came before us. The lessons from history are not limited to the actions of individuals or nations, but also encompass the consequences of their choices. By reflecting on the past, we can gain insights into the consequences of certain actions and make informed decisions in the present and future.

For example, the story of Prophet Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his expulsion from Paradise teaches us about the consequences of disobedience and the importance of seeking forgiveness. Similarly, the story of Prophet Noah (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the flood reminds us of the consequences of disbelief and the importance of following the guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the transient nature of this world. The phrase (mada minha) "مَضَى مِنْهَا" refers to the past that has already passed. It reminds us that everything in this world, including our own lives, is temporary. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and urges us to focus on the eternal life of the Hereafter.

In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 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

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for us to prioritize the eternal over the temporary, to seek knowledge and guidance from the past, and to reflect on the consequences of our actions. By doing so, we can navigate the challenges of this world with wisdom and make choices that lead us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to learn from the past and guide us towards a righteous and successful future.