Hadith #3825

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of recognizing that this world is not our permanent dwelling and encourages us to strive for the Hereafter. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by analyzing its key words and exploring its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (kunu) "كُونُوا" in the Hadith means "be" or "become." It is a command that urges us to embody a certain quality or characteristic. In this context, it calls upon us to become a community that possesses a specific understanding and mindset.

The word (qawman) "قَوْمًا" refers to a community or a group of people. It emphasizes the importance of collective action and unity in our pursuit of the ultimate goal.

The word (‘alimu) "عَلِمُوا" means "to know" or "to understand." It highlights the significance of knowledge and awareness in shaping our perspective and behavior. In this Hadith, it specifically refers to the understanding that this world is not our permanent abode.

The phrase (ad-dunya laysat bidarihim) "الدُّنيا لَيْسَتْ بِدارِهِمْ" translates to

this world is not their [permanent] abode.

It reminds us that the material possessions, desires, and pursuits of this world are temporary and fleeting. Our true home lies in the Hereafter, where we will find eternal peace and fulfillment.

The word (fastabdilu) "فاسْتَبْدَلُوا" means "to exchange" or "to substitute." It signifies the need for us to prioritize the Hereafter over the transient pleasures of this world. We are called upon to invest our time, efforts, and resources in actions that will benefit us in the eternal life to come.

This profound Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the temporary nature of this world and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46):

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 reminds us that the material possessions and worldly relationships we acquire are merely temporary adornments. The true measure of success lies in our enduring good deeds, which will bring us closer to Allah and secure a better future in the Hereafter.

Another verse that resonates with the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201):

Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.

This verse encapsulates the balanced approach that Muslims should adopt. While seeking goodness in this world is not discouraged, it should never overshadow our primary focus on the Hereafter. We should strive for success in both realms, seeking the pleasure of Allah and safeguarding ourselves from the punishment of the Fire.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions in light of the transient nature of this world. It encourages us to detach ourselves from the materialistic pursuits that distract us from our ultimate purpose and to invest in actions that will benefit us in the eternal life to come.

By understanding and internalizing the message of this Hadith, Muslims can cultivate a mindset that is focused on the Hereafter. This mindset will motivate us to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and strive for righteousness, all with the intention of attaining eternal success and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to comprehend the transient nature of this world and the determination to prioritize our actions for the sake of the Hereafter. May He guide us to become a community that understands the true purpose of our existence and strives for eternal success.