Hadith #10426

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,

Turning away from [the pleasures of] this world is the means of reforming the soul.

This thought-provoking saying emphasizes the importance of detaching oneself from the materialistic pursuits of this worldly life in order to attain spiritual growth and purification.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (salah) "صَلاحِ" refers to the reform or rectification of the soul. It implies the process of purifying one's inner self, attaining righteousness, and aligning oneself with the divine guidance. The term (nafs) "النَّفْسِ" refers to the self or the soul, which encompasses one's desires, inclinations, and innermost being. Lastly, (al-'uzoof) "العُزُوفُ" signifies turning away or abstaining from something.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits and the illusionary nature of material possessions. It reminds us that the true purpose of life lies beyond the temporary pleasures of this world. By turning away from the distractions and temptations of worldly desires, we can focus on the eternal and everlasting rewards of the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse teaches us the importance of striking a balance between our spiritual and worldly responsibilities. While we are encouraged to seek the rewards of the Hereafter, we should not neglect our obligations in this world. However, it is crucial to remember that our attachment to worldly possessions and desires should not lead us astray from the path of righteousness.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that turning away from the pleasures of this world is not a call for complete renunciation or asceticism. Rather, it is a reminder to prioritize our spiritual growth and to detach ourselves from the excessive love and attachment to worldly possessions. By doing so, we can attain a state of inner peace, contentment, and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

This Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and intentions. It encourages us to evaluate the extent to which we are consumed by the materialistic pursuits of this world and to redirect our focus towards the eternal and everlasting rewards of the Hereafter. By reforming our souls and purifying our intentions, we can strive towards attaining the ultimate success in both this life and the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of turning away from the transient pleasures of this world in order to reform our souls. It urges us to strike a balance between our worldly responsibilities and our spiritual growth. By reflecting on the Quranic verses that support this Hadith, we are reminded of the temporary nature of worldly pursuits and the need to prioritize our spiritual well-being. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.