Hadith #3826

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises us to be from the children of the Hereafter and not from the children of this world. By using the term "children," Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is referring to those who follow and prioritize the values and pursuits of either the Hereafter or this worldly life.

The word (Hereafter) "آخِرَةِ" refers to the eternal life that awaits us after death, where we will be held accountable for our actions in this world. It is a reminder that our ultimate goal should be to attain success and salvation in the Hereafter. The word (this world) "دُّنْيا" refers to the temporary and transient nature of worldly life, with its material possessions, desires, and distractions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter over this world. This does not mean that we should completely neglect our worldly responsibilities and obligations, but rather that we should not let the pursuit of worldly desires and material possessions consume us to the extent that we neglect our spiritual growth and preparation for the Hereafter.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the fleeting nature of this world and the importance of focusing on the Hereafter. Allah says in Ayah 46:

(Quran 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 highlights the temporary nature of worldly possessions and relationships, which are merely adornments of this life. It emphasizes that the true value lies in the enduring good deeds that we perform, which will bring us closer to Allah and lead to eternal rewards in the Hereafter.

Another verse that supports the message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the distractions and temptations of this world. Allah says in Ayah 60:

(Quran 28:60)

But what is with Allah is better and more lasting for those who have believed and upon their Lord rely.

This verse reminds us that the true and lasting blessings are with Allah, and those who believe in Him and rely on Him will find true success and fulfillment. It serves as a reminder that the pursuit of worldly desires and attachments will ultimately lead to disappointment and regret.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to reflect on our priorities and motivations in life. It reminds us that our actions and choices in this world will have consequences in the Hereafter. If we prioritize the Hereafter and strive to live a life in accordance with the teachings of Islam, we will be among the successful on the Day of Resurrection.

On the Day of Resurrection, every child will cling to their mother, seeking protection and comfort. This metaphorical imagery emphasizes the innate human desire for security and refuge. It serves as a reminder that on that day, our worldly attachments and relationships will hold no value or significance. Only our deeds and our connection with Allah will matter.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges us to prioritize the Hereafter over this world and to focus on our spiritual growth and preparation for the Day of Resurrection. It reminds us that the true and lasting success lies in our connection with Allah and the good deeds we perform. May Allah guide us to be among the children of the Hereafter and grant us success in both this world and the Hereafter.