Hadith #6854

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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:

رُبَّ عاطِب بَعْدَ السَّلامَةِ۔

This can be translated as:

Many a person is destroyed after having remained safe [and survived a disaster].

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (Aatib) "عاطِب" in this Hadith refers to a person who is destroyed or ruined. It signifies the ultimate downfall and destruction of an individual, both in this world and in the hereafter. The word (salamah) "سَّلامَةِ" means safety, well-being, or being unharmed. It implies that the person has survived a calamity or a disaster and has emerged unscathed.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:25):

And fear a trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty.

This verse highlights that calamities and trials can befall both the righteous and the wrongdoers. It reminds us that safety and well-being should not lead to complacency or arrogance, as the ultimate destruction can still befall those who have been spared from immediate harm.

Another verse that sheds light on the meaning of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Anfal (8:48):

And [remember] when Satan made their deeds pleasing to them and said, 'No one can overcome you today from among the people, and indeed, I am your protector.' But when the two armies sighted each other, he turned on his heels and said, 'Indeed, I am disassociated from you. Indeed, I see what you do not see; indeed, I fear Allah. And Allah is severe in penalty.'

This verse narrates the story of the Battle of Badr, where the disbelievers felt a false sense of security and invincibility. However, their arrogance and reliance on their own strength led to their ultimate destruction and defeat.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that even after surviving a calamity or disaster, one should not become complacent or neglectful of their duties towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is a warning against falling into the trap of arrogance, self-reliance, and heedlessness. The destruction mentioned in the Hadith can manifest in various forms, such as spiritual downfall, loss of faith, moral corruption, or worldly ruin.

For example, a person who survives a life-threatening illness may become negligent in their religious obligations, thinking that they have been granted a second chance at life. They may forget the gratitude they owe to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fail to utilize their remaining time in acts of worship and righteousness. Consequently, their spiritual well-being may deteriorate, leading to their ultimate destruction in the hereafter.

Similarly, a person who survives a financial crisis may become consumed by materialistic pursuits and worldly desires. They may forget the transient nature of wealth and become engrossed in accumulating possessions and indulging in extravagance. This heedlessness can lead to moral corruption, strained relationships, and the loss of true happiness and contentment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims that safety and well-being should not be taken for granted. It is a call to remain vigilant, humble, and grateful to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all circumstances. It urges us to continuously strive for spiritual growth, adhere to the teachings of Islam, and fulfill our obligations towards Allah and His creation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that surviving a calamity or disaster does not guarantee eternal safety. It warns against complacency, arrogance, and neglect of our duties towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By reflecting on the Quranic verses and understanding the consequences of heedlessness, we can strive to remain steadfast, grateful, and obedient to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all circumstances. May Allah protect us from destruction and guide us on the path of righteousness.