Hadith #6082

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 the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ طَلَبَ شَيْئاً نالَهُ أو بَعْضَهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever seeks a thing achieves it, or part of it.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their pursuit of knowledge, success, and spiritual growth.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (talaba) "طَلَبَ" in Arabic means to seek, to search for, or to strive for something. It implies an active effort and determination to attain a goal. This word highlights the importance of taking initiative and putting in the necessary effort to achieve one's aspirations.

The Hadith states that whoever embarks on a quest, seeking something, will either attain it in its entirety or at least a portion of it. This principle aligns with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages believers to strive for excellence in all aspects of life.

In Surah Al-Isra, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 90:4)

And We have certainly created man to toil and struggle.

This verse emphasizes the inherent nature of human beings to seek and strive for their goals. It reminds us that success is not merely handed to us, but rather requires effort and perseverance.

Furthermore, the Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge. In Surah Al-Zumar, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 47:19)

So know, [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women. And Allah knows of your movement and your resting place.

This verse highlights the significance of seeking knowledge about Allah and His oneness. It encourages Muslims to actively seek knowledge and understanding of their faith.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that our efforts and endeavors are not in vain. Even if we do not achieve our desired outcome in its entirety, our sincere efforts will not go unrewarded. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) acknowledges and rewards our sincere intentions and efforts.

For example, if a Muslim seeks knowledge and strives to understand the Quran, even if they do not comprehend every aspect of it, their sincere efforts will be rewarded. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) will bless them with increased knowledge and understanding, and their pursuit of knowledge will bear fruit in various aspects of their life.

Similarly, if a Muslim seeks success in their career or personal life, their sincere efforts will not go unnoticed by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Even if they do not achieve their desired outcome, their hard work, dedication, and perseverance will bring them closer to success in some form or another. They may gain valuable skills, experience personal growth, or develop resilience and perseverance, all of which are rewards in themselves.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking and striving for our goals. It reminds us that our efforts are not in vain and that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rewards our sincere intentions and endeavors. As Muslims, we should actively seek knowledge, success, and spiritual growth, knowing that our efforts will bear fruit, either in the form of achieving our desired outcome or through the valuable lessons and rewards gained along the way. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our pursuits and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.