Hadith #3734

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,

بيعُوا ما يَفْنى بِما يَبْقى، وتَعَوَّضُوا بِنَعيمِ الآخِرَةِ عَنْ شَقاءِ الدُّنيا۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the eternal rewards of the Hereafter over the temporary pleasures of this world.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining its key words. The word (sell) "بيعُوا" signifies the act of exchanging or giving up something in return for something else. In this context, it refers to the concept of sacrificing worldly possessions and desires for the sake of attaining the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter.

The phrase (that which perishes) "ما يَفْنى" refers to the transient nature of worldly possessions and pleasures. This includes material wealth, physical beauty, and worldly achievements, all of which are temporary and will eventually fade away. On the other hand, (that which remains) "ما يَبْقى" refers to the everlasting rewards and blessings of the Hereafter, such as Paradise and proximity to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:86),

Those are the ones who have bought the life of this world [in exchange] for the Hereafter, so the punishment will not be lightened for them, nor will they be aided.

This verse highlights the consequences of prioritizing worldly desires over the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. Those who choose to sell their Hereafter for the fleeting pleasures of this world will face severe consequences and will not receive any assistance or relief.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 the temporary nature of worldly possessions and highlights the superiority of enduring good deeds in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting upon the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that the pursuit of worldly pleasures and possessions should not be the primary focus of a Muslim's life. Instead, we should prioritize investing in good deeds and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in order to secure the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

By selling the perishable aspects of this world, such as material wealth, fame, and worldly desires, Muslims can acquire the everlasting bounties and blessings of the Hereafter. This requires a shift in mindset, where one recognizes the true value and purpose of life. The wretchedness and hardships of this world can be exchanged for the abundant joys and delights of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, encourages us to detach ourselves from the temporary allurements of this world and instead focus on building our eternal abode in the Hereafter. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to constantly evaluate their priorities and make choices that align with their ultimate goal of attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and securing a place in Paradise.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true value of this world and the Hereafter, and may He guide us to make choices that lead to eternal success.