Hadith #3469

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "رُبَّ دائب مُضَيِّع۔" This can be translated as

Many a diligent person also loses (or causes loss).

Let us delve into the exegesis of this enlightening saying in light of the Quran.

The word (daa'ib) "دائب" in this Hadith refers to a person who is diligent, hardworking, and persevering in their endeavors. They put in great effort and strive to achieve their goals. However, despite their diligence, they may still experience loss or cause loss to others. This loss can be in various aspects of life, such as wealth, relationships, or opportunities.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (Quran 2:155)

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse highlights that loss is a part of the tests and trials that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) puts His servants through. Even the most diligent and hardworking individuals may face losses in their lives. These losses can serve as tests of patience and faith. It is important for Muslims to remember that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and He has a greater wisdom behind every loss or setback we experience.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) tells the story of two men who owned gardens. One of them was described as a diligent and hardworking individual who took great care of his garden. However, despite his efforts, his garden was destroyed overnight by a divine decree. This story serves as a reminder that even the most diligent and hardworking individuals are not immune to loss and setbacks.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the reality that despite our best efforts, we may still experience loss or cause loss to others. This serves as a reminder for Muslims to remain humble and recognize that ultimate success and sustenance come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone. It teaches us to rely on Him, seek His guidance, and trust in His divine plan.

Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the importance of balancing our efforts and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). While it is essential to be diligent and work hard in our pursuits, we must also recognize that our efforts alone are not sufficient. We must seek the blessings and guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our endeavors.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that despite our diligence and hard work, we may still experience loss or cause loss to others. This serves as a test of our patience and faith, and a reminder to rely on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of our lives. We should strive to strike a balance between our efforts and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), recognizing that He is the ultimate provider and sustainer. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to navigate through the challenges of life with patience and faith.