Hadith #10699

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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,

The people who are most felicitous are those who are least interested in this world.

This enlightening saying emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly desires and the pursuit of spiritual contentment. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (zuhd) "زَهادَةً", which can be translated as "detachment" or "asceticism." Zuhd refers to the act of voluntarily abstaining from excessive attachment to worldly possessions, wealth, and desires. It is a state of contentment and detachment from the materialistic aspects of life, focusing instead on the spiritual and eternal realm.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the concept of zuhd and highlight its importance in attaining true felicity. 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.

This verse reminds us that the pleasures and possessions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They may bring temporary joy and satisfaction, but they ultimately fade away. The true essence of life lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

Another verse that aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse emphasizes the balance between seeking the rewards of the Hereafter and fulfilling our responsibilities in this world. It encourages Muslims to utilize the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah for the betterment of society, while not becoming excessively attached to worldly possessions or indulging in corrupt practices.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that true happiness and success lie in prioritizing the spiritual over the material. By detaching ourselves from the allure of this world, we free ourselves from the constant pursuit of wealth, status, and possessions. This detachment allows us to focus on developing our relationship with Allah, seeking His pleasure, and performing righteous deeds.

The consequences of practicing zuhd are profound. When one adopts a mindset of detachment, they are less likely to be consumed by greed, envy, and materialistic desires. Instead, they find contentment in the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon them and are more inclined to share their wealth and resources with those in need. Zuhd also helps in cultivating humility, gratitude, and a sense of purpose in life.

Moreover, zuhd acts as a shield against the distractions and temptations of this world. It enables individuals to prioritize their spiritual growth and seek closeness to Allah. By focusing on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter, Muslims are motivated to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and strive for moral excellence.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we are reminded of the transient nature of this world and the importance of seeking true felicity through detachment from worldly desires. By practicing zuhd, we can attain a state of contentment, strengthen our relationship with Allah, and strive for eternal success in the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the path of zuhd and grant us the wisdom to prioritize the eternal over the temporary.