Hadith #7600

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.

In this beautiful saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) questions the notion of finding joy or contentment in a life that is constantly decreasing with the passage of time. The Imam's words highlight the fleeting nature of life and the importance of recognizing its transitory nature.

The word (umr) "عُمْر" in this hadith refers to one's lifetime or the span of their existence. It encompasses the entire duration of a person's life, from birth to death. The word (tanqusuhu) "تَنْقُصُهُ" is derived from the root word (naqasa) "نَقَصَ", which means to decrease or diminish. Here, it signifies the gradual reduction of one's lifespan as time passes.

Imam Ali's question challenges the concept of finding happiness in a life that is constantly diminishing. It urges us to reflect on the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of death. This hadith reminds us that our time in this world is limited and that we should not become complacent or attached to the passing hours.

The Quran provides us with several verses that emphasize the temporary nature of life and the importance of recognizing its transience. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says 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 - 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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that the pleasures and attractions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They may bring temporary joy and satisfaction, but ultimately they fade away and turn to dust. The real purpose of life lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

Another verse that resonates with the message of Imam Ali's hadith is found in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3):

By time, Indeed, mankind is in loss, Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse highlights the value of time and the urgency of utilizing it wisely. It reminds us that the majority of people are in a state of loss due to their negligence and wastefulness of time. However, those who believe in Allah, perform righteous deeds, and encourage one another towards truth and patience are exceptions to this loss.

Imam Ali's thought-provoking saying serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of utilizing our time wisely. It encourages us to prioritize our actions and invest in deeds that will bring us closer to Allah and benefit us in the eternal life to come. By recognizing the transient nature of our existence, we can strive to make the most of every moment and ensure that our actions align with our ultimate purpose in this world.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the impactful message of this hadith and the ability to make the most of our limited time in this world. May He guide us to use our time in a manner that pleases Him and brings us closer to Him. And may He grant us success in both this life and the Hereafter.