Hadith #3856

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,

One who buys his Hereafter with his world, gains both of them.

This impactful saying highlights the importance of prioritizing the eternal life over the temporary worldly life. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this hadith is (ibtā'a) "ابْتاعَ", which means to purchase or acquire. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing that one can attain both the rewards of the Hereafter and the blessings of this world by investing in the Hereafter. This means that by prioritizing and dedicating our efforts towards seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can attain success in both realms.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support this concept. For instance, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 201:

But among them is he who says, 'Our Lord, give 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 importance of seeking goodness in both worlds and seeking protection from the punishment of Hellfire.

Another verse that aligns with the hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46:

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 while worldly possessions and relationships may bring temporary adornment to our lives, it is the enduring good deeds that hold true value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions towards the Hereafter. It encourages us to invest our time, wealth, and efforts in acts of worship, seeking knowledge, and helping others, with the intention of gaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

By doing so, we not only secure our place in the Hereafter but also experience the blessings and contentment in this world. For example, when we give in charity, we not only fulfill our obligation towards the poor and needy but also experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from helping others. Similarly, when we seek knowledge and implement it in our lives, we not only gain spiritual growth but also benefit from the wisdom and guidance that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bestows upon us.

Conversely, those who solely focus on worldly pursuits, neglecting their spiritual obligations, may gain temporary pleasures and wealth in this life but will ultimately miss out on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. As Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185:

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their actions and intentions towards the Hereafter. By investing in the eternal life, we not only secure our place in the Hereafter but also experience the blessings and contentment in this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to seek His pleasure and strive for success in both worlds.