Hadith #3668

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 righteous companions.

The Arabic phrase of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is "الدُّنْيا تُغْوي۔" which translates to "This world misguides." This concise statement holds profound wisdom and serves as a reminder for all Muslims.

The word (dunya) "دُنْيَا" refers to the temporal world, the materialistic realm that we currently reside in. It encompasses everything that is transient and perishable, including wealth, power, desires, and worldly pleasures. The word (tughwi) "تُغْوِي" is derived from the root word (ghawa) "غَوَى", which means to deviate, mislead, or lead astray.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly warns us about the deceptive nature of this world and its ability to divert us from the path of righteousness. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 185, Allah says,

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and emphasizes that the true reward and compensation for our deeds will be granted in the Hereafter. The world, with all its allurements and distractions, can easily lead us astray if we become too attached to its temporary pleasures and lose sight of our ultimate purpose.

Another verse that supports the message of Imam Ali's Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse beautifully illustrates the transitory nature of worldly pursuits and the deceptive allure they hold. It compares the worldly life to a rain that brings temporary growth but eventually withers away. The true value lies in seeking forgiveness from Allah and striving for His approval, for the Hereafter is where eternal rewards await.

Imam Ali's statement, "This world misguides," serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious and not be deceived by the temporary pleasures and distractions of this world. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and focus on the eternal life to come. By recognizing the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits, we can guard ourselves against becoming too attached to material possessions and instead invest our time and efforts in actions that will benefit us in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, and this Hadith is a testament to his deep understanding of the human condition. It serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to remain steadfast in their faith and not be swayed by the temptations of this world. May we all strive to follow the teachings of Imam Ali and seek the true guidance that leads to eternal success.