Hadith #3607

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of this worldly life and the inherent challenges and difficulties that come with it. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, describes the world as a place of (troubles) "خَبال", (plague) "وَبال", (termination) "زَوال", and (transition) "انْتِقال".

The word "خَبال" refers to the various troubles and hardships that one encounters in this world. It encompasses the trials, tribulations, and tests that we face throughout our lives. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran of the inevitability of trials and hardships, stating in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

The word "وَبال" refers to the plague or epidemic-like nature of this world. Just as a plague spreads and affects a large number of people, the difficulties and challenges of this world can also have a widespread impact on individuals and communities. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Anfal (8:25),

And fear a trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty.

The word "زَوال" refers to the termination or end of worldly affairs. This highlights the impermanence and fleeting nature of worldly possessions, achievements, and even life itself. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us 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.

The word "انْتِقال" refers to the constant transition and change that occurs in this world. Nothing remains constant, and everything is in a state of flux. People come and go, circumstances change, and nothing stays the same. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Ar-Rum (30:41),

Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of [the consequence of] what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness].

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes that the pleasures of this world do not equal its displeasures, and its fortunes do not equate to its misfortunes. This serves as a reminder that the temporary joys and material gains of this world are insignificant compared to the eternal rewards and blessings that await us in the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) assures us in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46),

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.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the risings and successes in this world do not substitute its collapses and failures. This highlights the transient nature of worldly achievements and the fact that they do not provide true fulfillment or lasting contentment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid (57:23),

That is because you took the verses of Allah in ridicule, and worldly life deluded you.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to not become attached to the fleeting pleasures and transient nature of this world. It reminds us to focus on the eternal rewards and blessings of the Hereafter, and to endure the trials and tribulations of this world with patience and steadfastness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this world and guide us on the path of righteousness.