Hadith #485

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

عِنْدَ هُجُومِ الآجالِ تَفْتَضِحُ الأماني والآمالُ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

When death strikes, hopes and aspirations are exposed.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful Hadith in light of the Quranic teachings. The word (hujum) "هُجُومِ" in the Hadith refers to the sudden and unexpected arrival of death. It signifies the moment when the soul is separated from the physical body, and one's worldly journey comes to an end. This word emphasizes the abruptness and unpredictability of death, reminding us of the transient nature of our existence in this world.

The term (ajal) "آجالِ" in the Hadith refers to the appointed time of death for every individual. It is a reminder that death is an inevitable reality that every soul will face. The word (taftadhih) "تَفْتَضِحُ" in the Hadith means to be exposed or laid bare. It implies that at the time of death, the true nature of our hopes, aspirations, and desires becomes apparent.

The Hadith highlights the fact that when faced with the reality of death, our worldly ambitions and desires lose their significance. All the material possessions, wealth, and status that we may have strived for in this life suddenly become meaningless. It is a moment of truth where the veil of illusion is lifted, and the true essence of our existence is revealed.

The Quranic teachings support this profound insight provided by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). In Surah Al-Ankabut, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (29:64)

And the worldly life is not but amusement and diversion; but the home of the Hereafter is best for those who fear Allah, so will you not reason?

This verse reminds us that the pleasures and pursuits of this world are temporary and fleeting, while the eternal abode of the Hereafter is the ultimate destination for those who truly fear Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qiyamah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (75:3-4)

Does man think that We will not assemble his bones? Yes, We are able [even] to proportion his fingertips.

These verses emphasize the power and ability of Allah to resurrect and gather the scattered remains of a human being, highlighting the reality of life after death.

When we reflect upon the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we realize the importance of prioritizing our spiritual journey over worldly pursuits. The moment of death is a wake-up call, a reminder that our true purpose in life lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

This Hadith urges us to introspect and evaluate the nature of our hopes and aspirations. Are we solely focused on worldly achievements, or do we strive for spiritual growth and righteousness? Are our ambitions aligned with the teachings of Islam, or are they driven by materialistic desires?

When we recognize the transient nature of this world and the certainty of death, it motivates us to redirect our efforts towards actions that will benefit us in the Hereafter. It encourages us to seek knowledge, engage in acts of worship, and strive for moral excellence. It reminds us to be mindful of our intentions and to purify our hearts from the love of worldly possessions.

The consequences of neglecting this profound insight are grave. If we allow ourselves to be consumed by worldly desires and neglect our spiritual development, we risk losing the opportunity to attain eternal bliss in the Hereafter. Our hopes and aspirations will be exposed as hollow and empty, devoid of any lasting value.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of this world and the importance of prioritizing our spiritual journey. It urges us to reflect on the true nature of our hopes and aspirations, and to align them with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to live a life that is pleasing to Him, and may He bless us with success in both this world and the Hereafter.