Hadith #7170

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

العاقلُ مَنْ غَلَبَ هَواهُ، ولَمْ يَبِعْ آخِرَتَهُ بِدُنْياهُ.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of intelligence and self-control in the pursuit of the Hereafter. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of the key words in this Hadith.

The word (al-'āqil) "العاقلُ" refers to the intelligent or wise person. It denotes someone who possesses the ability to discern between right and wrong, and who makes decisions based on sound judgment. This intelligence is not limited to worldly matters but extends to spiritual and moral realms as well.

The term (ghalaba) "غَلَبَ" means to overcome or prevail over something. In this context, it refers to the ability to conquer and control one's vain desires and base instincts. It implies that the intelligent person is one who has mastery over their own self and does not allow their desires to dictate their actions.

The phrase (hawāhu) "هَواهُ" refers to vain desires or whims. It encompasses all the temptations and inclinations that may lead a person astray from the path of righteousness. These desires can manifest in various forms, such as greed, lust, arrogance, or materialistic pursuits.

The word (ākhiratahu) "آخِرَتَهُ" refers to the Hereafter, the eternal life that awaits every individual after death. It represents the ultimate goal and purpose of a Muslim's existence, where they will be rewarded or punished based on their actions in this worldly life.

On the other hand, (dunyāhu) "دُنْياهُ" refers to the temporary life in this world. It encompasses all the worldly possessions, pleasures, and pursuits that may distract a person from their spiritual journey and the pursuit of the Hereafter.

To further understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (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 highlights the allure and attractiveness of worldly desires, which can distract individuals from focusing on their ultimate purpose in life. It reminds us that the enjoyment of worldly possessions and pleasures is temporary, while the true reward lies with Allah in the Hereafter.

Another verse that resonates with the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 that the true value lies in the enduring good deeds that a person performs in their lifetime. It reminds us that wealth and children, which are often considered as symbols of success and happiness in this world, are merely temporary adornments. The real reward lies in the good deeds that are done with sincerity and for the sake of Allah.

In light of these Quranic verses, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims. It urges us to prioritize the pursuit of the Hereafter over the temporary pleasures and desires of this world. It calls upon us to exercise self-control and wisdom in order to overcome our vain desires and make decisions that are in line with our ultimate goal of attaining Allah's pleasure and eternal salvation.

By resisting the temptations of this world and focusing on the Hereafter, we can attain true intelligence and wisdom. We will be able to make choices that align with our spiritual growth and moral values, rather than being swayed by temporary worldly gains. This Hadith encourages us to reflect on our actions and motivations, reminding us that the true measure of success lies in our commitment to the Hereafter and our ability to overcome our vain desires.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to overcome our vain desires and prioritize the pursuit of the Hereafter. May He guide us to make choices that are pleasing to Him and grant us success in both this world and the Hereafter.