Hadith #3812

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Everything in this world [is such that it] seems greater when heard than when seen.

This impactful saying highlights the deceptive nature of worldly attractions and urges us to reflect on the true value of material possessions and desires.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (sama'uhu) "سَماعُهُ" refers to hearing, while (iyan) "عِيانِهِ" refers to seeing. The word (kullu shay) "كُلُّ شَيء" encompasses everything in this world, indicating that this principle applies universally.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadeed (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.

This verse emphasizes the fleeting nature of worldly attractions and the illusion they create.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), 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.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and the ultimate reality of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that the allure of this world can often be misleading. When we hear about the pleasures and attractions of worldly possessions, they may seem grand and desirable. However, upon closer examination and personal experience, we often find that these things do not bring lasting satisfaction or true fulfillment.

For example, wealth and material possessions may appear enticing, but they cannot provide inner peace or contentment. We may hear stories of individuals who have amassed great wealth, yet their lives are filled with anxiety, stress, and emptiness. On the other hand, when we witness the struggles and hardships faced by those who possess little in this world, we may be inspired by their resilience, faith, and contentment.

Similarly, the pursuit of fame and recognition may seem appealing when we hear about the glamorous lives of celebrities. However, when we observe the toll it takes on their mental and emotional well-being, we realize that true happiness lies in leading a purposeful and meaningful life, guided by faith and moral values.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a reminder to prioritize the eternal over the temporary. The pleasures of this world are fleeting, while the rewards of the Hereafter are everlasting. As Muslims, we are encouraged to focus on building a strong relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seeking His pleasure, and performing righteous deeds that will benefit us in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us to be cautious of the allure of worldly attractions. It urges us to reflect on the transient nature of material possessions and desires, and to prioritize the pursuit of eternal rewards. By understanding the true value of this world and the Hereafter, we can navigate through life with wisdom, contentment, and a focus on what truly matters. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to the path of truth and grant us success in this world and the Hereafter.