Hadith #573

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.

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

نالَ المُنى مَنْ عَمِلَ لِدارِ البَقاءِ۔

This can be translated as,

He who works for his Eternal Abode obtains what he desires.

In this thought-provoking saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of striving for the everlasting life and the rewards it holds.

Let us begin by examining the key words in this Hadith. The word (nala) "نالَ" means to obtain or achieve, indicating that the desired outcome is attainable. (al-munā) "المُنى" refers to one's desires or aspirations. (amila) "عَمِلَ" means to work or act, emphasizing the need for active effort and dedication. Finally, (dār al-baqā) "دارِ البَقاءِ" refers to the Eternal Abode, the everlasting life in the Hereafter.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (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 reminds us that the true value lies in the everlasting rewards of good deeds, rather than the temporary adornments of this worldly life.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And of them are some who say, '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 worldly life and the Hereafter, acknowledging the significance of striving for eternal success.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions towards the Eternal Abode. It encourages us to work diligently and sincerely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure and the rewards of the Hereafter.

By focusing on the Eternal Abode, we are motivated to engage in acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, giving charity, and performing good deeds. These actions become a means of attaining what we desire, both in this life and the Hereafter. For example, when we strive to establish a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through prayer, we experience tranquility, peace of mind, and a sense of fulfillment.

Moreover, working for the Eternal Abode influences our choices and decisions in this worldly life. It shapes our character, guiding us to be honest, just, and compassionate individuals. We become conscious of our responsibilities towards others, striving to make a positive impact in society. This, in turn, leads to a more harmonious and prosperous community.

On the other hand, neglecting the Eternal Abode and solely focusing on worldly desires can lead to disappointment and emptiness. The temporary pleasures and material possessions of this life may bring temporary satisfaction, but they do not provide lasting fulfillment. As Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Qasas (28:60),

But whatever thing you [people] have been given - it is [only for] the enjoyment of worldly life and its adornment. And what is with Allah is better and more lasting; so will you not use reason?

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions towards the Eternal Abode. By working diligently and sincerely for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can attain what we desire in this life and the Hereafter. This entails engaging in acts of worship, striving for personal growth, and making positive contributions to society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to work for our Eternal Abode and bless us with success in this life and the Hereafter.