Hadith #579

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of working towards the Hereafter for those who truly believe in its eternal existence. Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding.

The key words in this Hadith are (it behoves) "يَنبَغِي" and (certain) "أَيْقَنَ". "يَنبَغِي" signifies an obligation or a duty, indicating that it is necessary and incumbent upon every Muslim to engage in actions that lead to the betterment of the Hereafter. "أَيْقَنَ" refers to having certainty or conviction, implying that one's belief in the everlasting nature of the Hereafter should be firm and unwavering.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of working for the Hereafter and the consequences of neglecting it. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 201, Allah says,

And of them are some who say, 'Our Lord, grant 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 supplication of the believers, acknowledging the need for goodness in both this world and the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46, Allah 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 emphasizes the transient nature of worldly possessions and highlights the superiority of everlasting good deeds in the sight of Allah.

The exegesis of this Hadith revolves around the concept of belief in the Hereafter and its impact on our actions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that if we truly believe in the eternal existence of the Hereafter, it is incumbent upon us to actively work towards it. This belief should not remain confined to mere words or passive acceptance, but should manifest in our deeds and choices.

Belief in the Hereafter motivates us to prioritize actions that will benefit us in the long run, rather than being solely focused on the temporary pleasures of this world. It encourages us to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, perform good deeds, and avoid sinful actions. This belief serves as a driving force for Muslims to strive for righteousness and constantly improve themselves.

The consequences of neglecting the Hereafter are severe. Allah warns us in the Quran about the punishment that awaits those who disregard the eternal life to come. In Surah Al-Mu'minun, verse 74, Allah says,

And if any do not believe in Allah and His Messenger, We have prepared, for those who reject Allah, a Blazing Fire!

This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disbelief and the importance of actively working towards the Hereafter.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that our actions in this world have a direct impact on our eternal life. Believing in the Hereafter should not be a passive belief, but a belief that motivates us to strive for excellence and righteousness. It should guide our choices, actions, and intentions, ensuring that we work diligently towards attaining success in the everlasting life to come.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the obligation to work for the Hereafter and the importance of having unwavering certainty in its existence. It urges us to prioritize actions that will benefit us in the eternal life and warns us of the consequences of neglecting this duty. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to actively work towards the Hereafter and may He make us among those who are successful in both this world and the Hereafter.