Hadith #9941

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,

Verily death is a visitor who is not loved, a killer who is not held accountable and an invincible adversary.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this statement in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (za'ir) "زائِرٌ" means a visitor, someone who comes and goes. In the context of death, it refers to the transient nature of life in this world. The word (mahbub) "مَحْبُوب" means loved or cherished. Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that death is not something that is desired or longed for by individuals. It is a visitor that is not welcomed with open arms.

The next word, (watir) "واتِرٌ", can be translated as a killer or a slayer. It signifies the finality of death and its ability to take away life. The word (matlub) "مَطْلُوب" means held accountable or answerable. In this context, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that death is a force that cannot be controlled or held accountable by anyone. It is an inevitable reality that every soul shall taste.

Lastly, the word (qirn) "قِرْنٌ" can be translated as an invincible adversary or an unbeatable enemy. It signifies the power and strength of death, which no one can escape. It is a reminder of the certainty and inevitability of death, regardless of one's status, wealth, or power.

To further understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:185),

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 reminds us that death is an inevitable reality for every soul. It is a reminder that this worldly life is temporary and fleeting, and the true reward and compensation for our deeds will be given in the Hereafter. The enjoyment and pleasures of this world are merely temporary illusions that distract us from the ultimate purpose of our existence.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Mulk (67:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

It is He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.

This verse highlights the wisdom behind the creation of death and life as a test for humanity. Death serves as a reminder of the transient nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the eternal life to come. It is through our righteous deeds and actions that we strive to excel in this test and attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful Hadith in this Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims. It reminds us of the transient nature of this world, the inevitability of death, and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. It urges us to reflect upon our actions and strive to lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us take heed of this reminder and strive to live a life of righteousness, seeking forgiveness for our sins, and preparing for the meeting with our Creator. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to face death with faith and to attain His mercy and Paradise in the Hereafter.