Hadith #3652

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the purpose of this worldly life and the tests that we face in it. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) begins by stating that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has made this world as a means for what comes after it. This implies that the purpose of our existence in this world is not limited to the temporary pleasures and pursuits of this life, but rather it is a preparation for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has tested the inhabitants of this world in order to determine who among them is best in conduct. This test serves as a means for Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to assess the actions and intentions of His creation. It is through these tests that individuals are given the opportunity to demonstrate their faith, piety, and righteousness.

The phrase

We have not been created for this world

emphasizes that our ultimate purpose is not confined to the materialistic pursuits of this life. Our creation is not solely for the purpose of accumulating wealth, seeking power, or indulging in worldly desires. Rather, our true purpose lies in fulfilling the commands of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving to attain His pleasure.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further clarifies that we have not been commanded to strive solely for the sake of this world. Our efforts and endeavors should not be solely focused on worldly gains, but rather they should be directed towards the pursuit of righteousness, obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and the betterment of our souls.

The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by stating that we have been placed in this world in order to be tested. This test serves as a means for our spiritual growth and development. It is through the challenges and trials of this world that we have the opportunity to purify our souls, strengthen our faith, and strive towards attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The exegesis of this Hadith can be further supported by various Quranic verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:2-3):

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried? But We have certainly tried those before them, and Allah will surely make evident those who are truthful, and He will surely make evident the liars.

This verse highlights the concept of trials and tests in this world. It emphasizes that true belief is not merely a statement, but it is demonstrated through actions and perseverance in the face of challenges. The tests we face in this world serve as a means for Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to distinguish between those who are sincere in their faith and those who are not.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155):

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 the various forms of tests and trials that individuals may encounter in their lives. It emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance in the face of adversity. The tests we face in this world are meant to strengthen our character, increase our reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and ultimately lead us towards spiritual growth and development.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the true purpose of our existence in this world. It emphasizes that our focus should not be solely on the temporary pleasures and pursuits of this life, but rather on the eternal life in the Hereafter. The tests and trials we face in this world serve as opportunities for us to demonstrate our faith, piety, and righteousness. It is through these tests that we have the chance to purify our souls, strengthen our faith, and strive towards attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to navigate through the tests of this world and may He bless us with success in the Hereafter.