Hadith #534

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

If you desire success and honor in the Hereafter, then take from the perishing [life of this world] for the everlasting [life of the Hereafter].

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of prioritizing the eternal life over the temporary and fleeting pleasures of this world.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (success) "فَوزِ" refers to attaining the ultimate success and salvation in the Hereafter. It encompasses the pleasure and satisfaction of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the eternal rewards that await the believers. The word (honor) "كَرامَةِ" signifies the elevated status and dignity bestowed upon the righteous in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to (take) "خُذُوا" from the perishing life of this world. This implies that we should utilize the resources and opportunities available to us in this temporary world for the sake of our eternal life. We should not be attached to worldly possessions and desires, but rather use them as a means to attain the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter.

This guidance from Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 201:

And of them there are some who say: 'Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and save us from the torment of the Fire!'

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking goodness in both this world and the Hereafter. It encourages us to strive for success and honor in the Hereafter while also seeking the blessings and provisions of this world. However, the key is to prioritize the eternal life and not become overly attached to the material possessions and pleasures of this temporary abode.

Another Quranic verse that complements the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 60:

But if anyone desires the Hereafter, and strives for it with the necessary effort due for it, while he is a believer, then such are the ones whose striving shall be appreciated.

This verse highlights the importance of striving for the Hereafter with sincere effort and dedication. It emphasizes that true believers are those who prioritize the eternal life and make conscious efforts to attain success and honor in the Hereafter. This aligns perfectly with Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice to take from the perishing world for the everlasting Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and intentions. It encourages us to evaluate our priorities and make conscious choices that align with our ultimate goal of attaining success and honor in the Hereafter. By utilizing the resources and opportunities of this world in a manner that pleases Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can secure our place in the eternal abode.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to prioritize the everlasting life over the temporary world. It advises us to utilize the resources and opportunities of this world for the sake of our eternal success and honor in the Hereafter. By aligning our actions with this guidance, we can strive towards attaining the ultimate goal of pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and securing our place in the eternal abode. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement this advice in our lives.