Hadith #7202

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

It behoves the intelligent one to make arrangements for his Hereafter and to develop [and build] the abode of his permanent residence.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the eternal life in the Hereafter over the temporary life of this world.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining its key words and their implications. The word (intelligent one) "عاقِلِ" refers to a person who possesses wisdom, understanding, and foresight. It highlights the importance of using one's intellect and rationality to make wise decisions and choices in life. The word (to make arrangements) "يُقَدِّمَ" signifies the act of giving priority and importance to something. In this context, it refers to prioritizing the Hereafter over worldly matters. The phrase (his Hereafter) "لآخِرَتِهِ" refers to the eternal life that awaits every individual after death, where their deeds will be accounted for and rewarded or punished accordingly. Finally, the phrase (the abode of his permanent residence) "دارَ إقامَتِهِ" refers to the everlasting abode in the Hereafter, either in Paradise or Hellfire.

To further understand the significance of prioritizing the Hereafter, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says 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 highlights the importance of seeking goodness in both this world and the Hereafter, acknowledging the eternal consequences of our actions.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 material possessions and worldly attachments are temporary, while the good deeds we accumulate in this life will have everlasting rewards in the Hereafter.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we realize that it urges us to prioritize our actions and efforts towards securing a successful Hereafter. It encourages us to invest in acts of worship, righteousness, and good deeds that will benefit us in the eternal life to come. By doing so, we are building and developing our permanent residence in the Hereafter, where we will find everlasting peace, joy, and reward.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes the importance of utilizing our intellect and making informed decisions. He reminds us that true intelligence lies in recognizing the temporary nature of this world and focusing on the eternal life that awaits us. By prioritizing the Hereafter, we align our actions with the ultimate purpose of our existence and ensure a prosperous and fulfilling eternal life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims to prioritize their Hereafter over the fleeting pleasures of this world. It encourages us to use our intellect and wisdom to make choices that will benefit us in the eternal life to come. By investing in acts of worship, righteousness, and good deeds, we are building and developing our permanent residence in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to prioritize our Hereafter and lead a life that is pleasing to Him.