Hadith #1382

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Acting slowly is praiseworthy in everything except in opportunities for [doing] good.

This enlightening saying highlights the importance of seizing opportunities for performing good deeds without delay.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (tu'adah) "تُؤَدَةُ" refers to acting slowly or delaying. It implies a deliberate and cautious approach, taking one's time before making a decision or taking action. The word (mamdūḥah) "مَمْدُوحَةٌ" means praiseworthy or commendable, indicating that acting slowly is generally regarded as a positive trait.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that this principle applies to (kulli shay) "كُلِّ شَيْء", meaning everything in general. However, he makes an exception for (furāsi al-khayr) "فُرَصِ الخَيْرِ", which refers to opportunities for doing good. This implies that when it comes to seizing opportunities for performing acts of righteousness, one should not delay or hesitate.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities for good deeds in several verses. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:21), Allah says,

Race toward forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden whose width is like the width of the heavens and earth, prepared for those who believed in Allah and His messengers.

This verse encourages believers to hasten towards seeking forgiveness and striving for Paradise, highlighting the urgency in seizing opportunities for righteousness.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:148), Allah states,

So race to [all that is] good.

This verse emphasizes the need to compete and strive in performing good deeds, indicating that delays may cause missed opportunities for earning rewards and blessings.

The consequences of acting slowly in opportunities for good can be profound. Delaying in performing acts of righteousness may result in lost blessings, missed chances to help others, and a decrease in the overall impact of our actions. Moreover, it can lead to regret and a sense of missed opportunities in our spiritual journey.

For example, imagine a person who has the opportunity to donate to a charitable cause but delays their contribution. They may miss the chance to alleviate someone's suffering or make a positive impact in society. On the other hand, if they seize the opportunity and act promptly, they can bring about positive change and earn the pleasure of Allah.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities for good deeds without delay. This requires us to be vigilant and proactive in recognizing and acting upon opportunities for righteousness. By doing so, we can maximize our potential for good and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the praiseworthiness of acting slowly in general, while emphasizing the need to seize opportunities for good deeds without delay. This principle aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which encourage believers to race towards righteousness and seize every chance to do good. By understanding and implementing this Hadith in our lives, we can strive to be proactive, make a positive impact, and earn the pleasure of Allah. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to seize every opportunity for good.