Hadith #6088

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 Arabic phrase of the Hadith is "قَد يُدْرَكُ المَطْلُوبُ۔" which translates to

At times that which is sought after is attained.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their pursuit of their goals and aspirations.

The word (matlub) "مَطْلُوبُ" in the Hadith refers to something that is desired, sought after, or aimed for. It encompasses various aspects of life, including material, spiritual, and intellectual pursuits. It represents the goals and objectives that individuals strive to achieve.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 186: (2:186)

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.

This verse highlights the closeness of Allah to His servants and His willingness to respond to their prayers and supplications.

Therefore, when Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that

At times that which is sought after is attained,

he is reminding Muslims that their desires and aspirations can be fulfilled through sincere supplication and reliance on Allah. It emphasizes the importance of turning to Allah in times of need and seeking His assistance and guidance.

Furthermore, the Hadith encourages Muslims to have faith and trust in Allah's wisdom and decree. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216: (2:216)

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse reminds us that Allah's knowledge and wisdom surpass our limited understanding. Sometimes, what we desire may not be in our best interest, and what we dislike may actually be beneficial for us.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the importance of perseverance and effort in achieving our goals. In Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 2, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (29:2)

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?

This verse reminds us that success and fulfillment of our desires require hard work, determination, and patience. We must strive and make sincere efforts while relying on Allah's guidance and assistance.

Moreover, the Hadith serves as a reminder that the fulfillment of our desires is not solely dependent on our efforts, but also on the divine decree of Allah. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qamar, verse 49: (54:49)

Indeed, all things We created with predestination.

This verse emphasizes that everything in this universe, including the attainment of our desires, is under the control and predestination of Allah. Therefore, we should submit to His will and trust in His divine plan.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

At times that which is sought after is attained

reminds Muslims of the importance of supplication, trust in Allah's wisdom, perseverance, and reliance on His divine decree. It encourages us to strive for our goals while recognizing that ultimate success lies in the hands of Allah. May Allah grant us the ability to seek what is beneficial and guide us on the path of righteousness.