Hadith #4806

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states: "قَدْ يَتَنَغَّصُ السُّرُورُ۔" which translates to

Perhaps [the joy of] happiness may turn bitter.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep wisdom and insight into the nature of worldly pleasures and the transient nature of happiness.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. The word (tanaghasu) "تَنَغَّصُ" means to turn sour, bitter, or to change in a negative way. It implies that something which initially brings joy and happiness can unexpectedly transform into a source of sorrow or disappointment.

This concept is beautifully reflected in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and the potential for them to lead us astray. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says: (Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse illustrates that the temporary joys and pleasures of this world are like the rain that brings forth lush vegetation, but eventually withers away, leaving behind nothing but debris. Similarly, the happiness we experience in this life can also fade away, leaving us with disappointment or sorrow.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that we should not become too attached to worldly pleasures or rely solely on them for our happiness. Instead, we should seek contentment and fulfillment through our connection with Allah and the pursuit of righteous deeds.

The consequences of becoming overly attached to worldly happiness can be detrimental to our spiritual well-being. When we place our ultimate happiness in material possessions, status, or other transient sources, we become vulnerable to disappointment and despair when those things are taken away or fail to bring us lasting satisfaction.

For example, a person may find joy and happiness in accumulating wealth and possessions. However, if their focus solely revolves around materialistic pursuits, they may neglect their spiritual growth, relationships, and the pursuit of higher values. Eventually, they may realize that their wealth and possessions do not bring them true happiness and fulfillment, leading to a sense of bitterness and emptiness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims to seek a balanced approach to happiness. We should enjoy the blessings and pleasures of this world, but not let them consume us or become the sole source of our happiness. True and lasting happiness can only be found in the remembrance of Allah, the fulfillment of our duties towards Him and His creation, and the pursuit of a righteous and virtuous life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the joy of happiness in this world can be fleeting and may turn bitter. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to seek a balanced approach to happiness, not becoming overly attached to worldly pleasures, and instead finding true fulfillment through our connection with Allah and the pursuit of righteous deeds. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand this wise message and guide us on the path of true and lasting happiness.