Hadith #3868

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us about the deceptive nature of this worldly life. The key word in this Hadith is (ghuroor al-dunya) "غُرورِ الدُّنيا", which can be translated as the

deceptions of this world.

The word (wathiqa) "وَثِقَ" means to rely or depend on something, while (amin) "أمِنَ" means to consider oneself safe or secure. And (makhufah) "مَخُوفَهُ" refers to the perils or dangers.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us about the temporary and deceptive nature of this worldly life. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says: (57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and the illusion they create. The deceptions of this world can lead us astray, making us forget the ultimate purpose of our existence and the eternal life that awaits us. We become engrossed in accumulating wealth, seeking fame, and indulging in worldly desires, thinking that these things will bring us security and happiness. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that relying on these deceptions will only lead to our downfall.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Imran, where Allah says: (3:14)

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

This verse reminds us that the attractions of this world can be alluring, but they are temporary and ultimately meaningless. We should not be deceived by the glitter and glamour of worldly possessions, for true security and contentment lie in the remembrance of Allah and the pursuit of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) warns us that those who rely solely on the deceptions of this world are deluding themselves into a false sense of security. They are blind to the reality that this world is transient and that true safety lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and preparing for the hereafter.

By reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded to prioritize our spiritual growth and the pursuit of knowledge over worldly pursuits. We should not be swayed by the temporary pleasures and distractions of this world, but rather focus on building a strong relationship with Allah and striving for righteousness. This Hadith serves as a wake-up call for us to be vigilant and not fall into the trap of relying on the deceptions of this world.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize the true nature of this world and protect us from its deceptions. May He guide us to rely solely on Him and seek His pleasure in all our endeavors. Ameen.