Hadith #611

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,

صَلاحُ الآخِرَةِ رَفْضُ الدُّنيا۔

This can be translated as,

The betterment of the Hereafter is in the rejection of this world.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this enlightening saying in light of the Quran.

The word (salah) "صَلاحُ" in this Hadith refers to the betterment, improvement, or rectification of the Hereafter. It encompasses all aspects of spiritual growth, attaining closeness to Allah, and achieving eternal bliss in the afterlife. The Hereafter is the ultimate goal for every Muslim, as it is the realm of everlasting happiness and reward.

The term (rafdu) "رَفْضُ" means the rejection or abandonment of something. In this context, it signifies the detachment and disinterest in the materialistic aspects of this world. It does not imply complete renunciation of worldly affairs, but rather a mindset that prioritizes the Hereafter over worldly pursuits.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of focusing on the Hereafter and not becoming overly attached to the transient and fleeting nature of this world. It reminds us that true success lies in investing our time, efforts, and resources in actions that will benefit us in the eternal life to come.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201),

Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking goodness in both this world and the Hereafter, but with a clear recognition that the Hereafter holds greater significance.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 reminds us that while worldly possessions and relationships may bring temporary pleasure, it is the lasting good deeds that hold true value in the sight of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement encourages us to reflect on our priorities and evaluate our attachment to worldly desires. By rejecting the excessive love for material possessions, power, and status, we free ourselves from the distractions that hinder our spiritual growth and hinder our progress towards the Hereafter.

When we detach ourselves from the allure of this world, we become more focused on fulfilling our obligations towards Allah and our fellow human beings. We become more compassionate, generous, and selfless in our actions, seeking to earn the pleasure of Allah rather than the approval of society.

The rejection of this world does not mean neglecting our responsibilities or living in isolation. It means recognizing that the true purpose of our existence is to worship Allah and seek His pleasure. We engage in the affairs of this world with the intention of utilizing them as a means to attain success in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith that the betterment of the Hereafter lies in our ability to detach ourselves from the materialistic aspects of this world. By prioritizing our spiritual growth and investing in actions that will benefit us in the eternal life to come, we pave the way for a successful Hereafter.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to reject the allure of this world and focus on the betterment of the Hereafter. May He guide us to make choices that align with His pleasure and grant us success in both worlds. Ameen.