Hadith #562

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 noble companions.

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

مَنْ جَعَلَ كُلَّ هَمِّهِ لآخِرَتِهِ ظَفِرَ بِالمأمُولِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and focusing on the Hereafter, as it leads to success in attaining one's desired goals.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (ja'ala) "جَعَلَ" means to make or to set. In this context, it refers to the act of consciously and deliberately directing one's efforts and concerns towards a particular goal. (kull) "كُلَّ" means all or every, indicating that one should dedicate all aspects of their life towards the Hereafter. (hammihi) "هَمِّهِ" refers to one's concerns, worries, and efforts. (l-akhiratihi) "لآخِرَتِهِ" means for the Hereafter, signifying that the primary focus should be on the eternal life to come. Finally, (zafira bi-l-ma'mul) "ظَفِرَ بِالمأمُولِ" translates to succeeding in attaining what one looks forward to.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter and striving for it. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (2: 110)

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters

This verse highlights the need to strike a balance between the worldly affairs and the pursuit of the Hereafter. While we should not neglect our responsibilities in this world, our primary focus should be on the eternal life to come.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Qasas, where Allah says, (28: 77)

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking the Hereafter while not neglecting our responsibilities in this world. It reminds us that success lies in balancing our worldly pursuits with our ultimate goal of attaining Paradise.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their efforts and concerns towards the Hereafter. By doing so, they will succeed in attaining their desired goals. This Hadith encourages Muslims to reflect upon their intentions and actions, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Islam and the pursuit of eternal happiness.

For example, a person who puts all their efforts into acquiring wealth and material possessions, without considering the consequences in the Hereafter, may find temporary success in this world. However, their ultimate goal of attaining Paradise and the pleasure of Allah will remain unfulfilled. On the other hand, a person who dedicates their time, wealth, and efforts towards acts of worship, seeking knowledge, and helping others for the sake of Allah, will find success in both this world and the Hereafter.

The motivation behind prioritizing the Hereafter is rooted in the understanding that this worldly life is temporary and fleeting. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Kahf, (18: 45)

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 serves as a reminder that the pleasures and pursuits of this world are temporary, while the rewards of the Hereafter are everlasting.

The consequences of prioritizing the Hereafter are profound. By focusing on the eternal life to come, Muslims are more likely to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and strive for moral excellence. This dedication to the Hereafter leads to a life of purpose, fulfillment, and spiritual growth. It also instills a sense of accountability and responsibility, as Muslims understand that their actions in this world will have consequences in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter in all aspects of life. By directing our efforts and concerns towards the eternal life to come, we can attain success in both this world and the Hereafter. This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the need to seek the Hereafter while fulfilling our responsibilities in this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to prioritize the Hereafter and attain success in both worlds.