مِنَ السّاعاتِ تَوَلُّدُ الآفاتِ۔
Calamities are born from the passage of time.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Important Events)
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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,
مِنَ السّاعاتِ تَوَلُّدُ الآفاتِ۔
This can be translated as,
Calamities are born from the passage of time.
Let us delve into the significance of this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.
The word (tawallud) "تَوَلُّدُ" in the Hadith refers to the process of giving birth or being born. It signifies the emergence or manifestation of something. In this context, it refers to the birth or emergence of calamities. The word (al-aafat) "الآفاتِ" refers to afflictions, disasters, or misfortunes that befall individuals or societies.
To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 2:
Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?
This verse emphasizes that trials and tribulations are an inherent part of life. They are a means through which individuals are tested and their true faith is revealed. Calamities and hardships serve as a test of our patience, resilience, and reliance on Allah.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:
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.
This verse highlights that calamities and trials are a means of purification and growth for believers. They provide an opportunity for us to strengthen our faith, seek closeness to Allah, and develop patience and gratitude.
The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that calamities are not random occurrences but are a natural consequence of the passage of time. As time progresses, we are bound to face challenges and difficulties. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that we should not be disheartened or lose hope when faced with calamities. Instead, we should embrace them as opportunities for personal growth, spiritual development, and drawing closer to Allah.
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, which is evident in this Hadith. He understood the transient nature of this world and the inevitability of trials and tribulations. By acknowledging the birth of calamities from the passage of time, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to be prepared, both mentally and spiritually, for the challenges that lie ahead.
Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that calamities are not meant to break us but to shape us into stronger individuals. They provide an opportunity for us to turn to Allah in sincere supplication, seeking His guidance and mercy. Calamities also serve as a reminder of our own vulnerability and the need for humility before the Almighty.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that calamities are an inevitable part of life. They are born from the passage of time and serve as tests of our faith and character. By embracing these trials with patience, gratitude, and reliance on Allah, we can navigate through them and emerge stronger in our faith. May Allah grant us the strength and wisdom to face the challenges of life and may He protect us from all calamities.
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