Hadith #3670

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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, "الدُّنْيَا خُسْرَانٌ" which translates to

This world is a loss [for those who seek it].

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature and inherent shortcomings of worldly pursuits.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us explore the key words and concepts within it. The word "دُّنْيَا" refers to the temporal world, the material realm in which we reside. It encompasses the physical, social, and economic aspects of our lives. The term "خُسْرَانٌ" denotes loss, detriment, or deprivation. It signifies the negative consequences and ultimate futility of solely focusing on worldly pursuits.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the impermanence and deceptive nature of worldly possessions and desires. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 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.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

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.

These verses from the Quran reinforce the message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith, highlighting the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits and the ultimate insignificance of material possessions in the grand scheme of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) cautions us against becoming overly attached to the material world, as it can distract us from our spiritual growth and the pursuit of eternal salvation. When we prioritize worldly gains over our spiritual well-being, we risk losing sight of our true purpose in life.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strike a balance between their worldly responsibilities and their spiritual obligations. It encourages us to prioritize the pursuit of knowledge, good deeds, and the development of our character, rather than being consumed by the pursuit of wealth, power, and temporary pleasures.

By recognizing the transient nature of worldly pursuits, we can develop a deeper understanding of the true value of our actions and intentions. This awareness can motivate us to invest our time, energy, and resources in endeavors that have lasting benefits in this life and the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

This world is a loss [for those who seek it]

serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth and the pursuit of eternal salvation over the transient pleasures and pursuits of this world. By aligning our actions and intentions with the teachings of the Quran, we can strive for a balanced and purposeful life, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the straight path and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.