Hadith #3840

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has not described or characterized this world specifically for His close friends, nor has He deprived it from His enemies. This statement highlights an important aspect of the world and its relationship with the believers and disbelievers.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words used by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The word (sifi) "صِفِ" means to describe or characterize, while (danna) "ضُنَّ" means to withhold or deprive. These words emphasize the fact that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has not specifically designated this world exclusively for His friends, nor has He denied it from His enemies.

To further comprehend the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286):

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

This verse reminds us that the world is a place of tests and trials for all individuals, regardless of their relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The challenges we face in this world are not exclusive to the righteous or the wicked; rather, they are a means for us to grow and develop spiritually.

Another verse that sheds light on the meaning of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:45):

And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allah is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability.

This verse illustrates the transient nature of the world and its temporary pleasures. It serves as a reminder that the world is not the ultimate goal, but rather a means to attain the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims. It reminds us that the world is not a place exclusively reserved for the righteous, nor is it a realm denied to the wicked. Rather, it is a temporary abode where both believers and disbelievers are tested and given opportunities to strive towards righteousness.

This Hadith also highlights the justice and wisdom of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). He does not discriminate between His creation based on their worldly status or material possessions. Instead, He judges individuals based on their faith, piety, and actions. This understanding aligns with the Quranic principle that states, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a reminder for believers to not become attached to the materialistic aspects of this world. It encourages us to focus on our spiritual growth, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than the fleeting pleasures of this temporary life. It reminds us that our ultimate goal should be to attain success in the hereafter, where true and everlasting happiness awaits.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the impartiality of this world and its temporary nature. It reminds us that the world is not exclusively reserved for the righteous, nor is it denied to the wicked. Rather, it is a place of tests and trials for all individuals. It encourages us to focus on our spiritual growth and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than becoming attached to the materialistic aspects of this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this world and guide us on the path of righteousness.