Hadith #11168

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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 basis of God-wariness is rejection of this world.

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

The word (milak) "مِلاكُ" in this Hadith refers to the foundation or basis of something. It signifies the core principle or essence upon which a concept is built. In this context, it refers to the fundamental principle of (taqwa) "تُّقى", which is often translated as God-wariness or piety.

The word (taqwa) "تُّقى" encompasses a comprehensive sense of consciousness and awareness of Allah's presence. It involves guarding oneself against anything that may displease Allah and striving to fulfill His commands. It is a state of mind and heart that leads to righteous actions and a virtuous life.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that the rejection of this world is the basis of taqwa. The word (rafdu) "رَفْضُ" means to reject or turn away from something. In this context, it refers to the detachment from the materialistic aspects of this worldly life.

This Hadith reminds us that true taqwa cannot be achieved if we are attached to the temporary pleasures and distractions of this world. It emphasizes the need to prioritize the eternal life in the Hereafter over the fleeting pleasures and pursuits of this worldly existence.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support this concept of rejecting the world for the sake of taqwa. 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 the true reward and compensation for our deeds will be given in the Hereafter. The pleasures and attractions of this world are merely temporary and illusory. Therefore, those who are drawn away from the temptations of this world and focus on attaining Paradise have truly understood the essence of taqwa.

Another verse that supports the concept of rejecting the world for the sake of taqwa is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and relationships. While they may bring temporary joy and adornment to our lives, they are not the ultimate source of true happiness and success. The enduring good deeds, which are rooted in taqwa, hold greater value in the sight of Allah and are the key to attaining His rewards and blessings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual journey and focus on the Hereafter. By rejecting the allurements of this world and embracing the path of taqwa, we can attain a higher level of consciousness and closeness to Allah.

This rejection of the world does not mean complete isolation or neglect of our responsibilities in this life. Rather, it calls for a balanced approach where we use the blessings of this world in accordance with the teachings of Islam and for the betterment of ourselves and society.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified this principle throughout his life. Despite being the caliph and having access to worldly power and wealth, he remained detached from the materialistic aspects of this world. His focus was always on seeking the pleasure of Allah and serving humanity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the foundation of taqwa lies in rejecting the worldly distractions and attachments. By prioritizing the eternal life in the Hereafter and striving to please Allah, we can attain true God-wariness and lead a righteous and purposeful life. May Allah guide us all on the path of taqwa and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.