Hadith #5899

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

كُلُّ بَلاء دُونَ النَّارِ عافِيَةٌ۔

This can be translated as,

Every tribulation other than the fire [of hell] is [a means to] wellbeing.

Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (balaa) "بَلاء" in Arabic refers to trials, afflictions, or tribulations that one may face in life. It encompasses various challenges such as physical ailments, financial difficulties, loss of loved ones, or any other form of adversity. It is important to note that these trials are a part of the test that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has decreed for us in this worldly life.

The Hadith emphasizes that every tribulation, except for the fire of hell, leads to wellbeing. This means that the difficulties we face in life are not meant to harm us, but rather to purify and strengthen us. They are a means for our spiritual growth and development. This understanding is supported by several Quranic verses.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286),

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reassures us that Allah is aware of our capabilities and will not test us beyond our capacity. Therefore, even in the face of tribulations, we can find solace in the fact that Allah has chosen us for these tests because He knows we have the strength to overcome them.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:2-3), Allah says,

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried? But We have certainly tried those before them, and Allah will surely make evident those who are truthful, and He will surely make evident the liars.

This verse highlights the purpose of trials in distinguishing the sincere believers from the hypocrites. Through these tests, our faith is refined, and our true character is revealed.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Insan (76:2-3), Allah describes the righteous as those who

give food, for the love of Him, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'

This verse exemplifies the concept of wellbeing that Imam Ali's Hadith alludes to. By enduring and overcoming trials, we have the opportunity to attain spiritual growth and earn the pleasure of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) wise utterance reminds us that tribulations are not to be seen as punishments or misfortunes, but rather as opportunities for growth and purification. They serve as a means to strengthen our faith, increase our patience, and develop our character. Just as gold is purified through fire, we too can emerge from trials as better individuals.

When we face difficulties, we should turn to Allah in sincere supplication and seek His guidance and support. We should strive to maintain a positive mindset, knowing that every tribulation is a stepping stone towards our ultimate wellbeing. By embracing these challenges with patience, perseverance, and trust in Allah, we can transform our hardships into blessings and attain true success in this life and the hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to navigate through the trials of life and emerge stronger in our faith. May He bless us with the ability to recognize the hidden blessings within every tribulation and grant us ultimate wellbeing in this world and the hereafter.