Hadith #9932

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the future, as the one who approaches us may bring either everlasting felicity or wretchedness. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this thought-provoking saying and explore its implications in the light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (qadiman) "قادِماً", (fawz) "فَوْزِ", (shiqwah) "شِّقْوَةِ", (mustahiq) "مُسْتَحِقٌّ", and (udah) "عُدَّةِ".

(qadiman) "قادِماً" refers to someone who is approaching or coming towards us. It signifies the inevitability of encounters with various individuals in our lives. These encounters may bring either positive outcomes (felicity) or negative outcomes (wretchedness).

(fawz) "فَوْزِ" refers to everlasting felicity or success. In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises success to those who believe, do righteous deeds, and follow His guidance. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the importance of preparing ourselves with the best provision, which is Taqwa (God-consciousness).

On the other hand, (shiqwah) "شِّقْوَةِ" refers to wretchedness or misery. In the Quran, Allah warns us about the consequences of disobedience and straying from the path of righteousness. For instance, in Surah Al-Isra (17:18), Allah says,

Whoever should desire the immediate - We hasten for him from it what We will to whom We intend. Then We have made for him Hell, which he will [enter to] burn, censured and banished.

This verse serves as a reminder that those who choose the path of disobedience will face the consequences of their actions.

The term (mustahiq) "مُسْتَحِقٌّ" means deserving or worthy. It implies that the person who approaches us, whether bringing felicity or wretchedness, is deserving of the best preparation. This highlights the importance of being prepared for any situation, whether positive or negative, and treating others with fairness and justice.

Lastly, (udah) "عُدَّةِ" refers to preparation or provision. It signifies the need to equip ourselves with the necessary tools, knowledge, and virtues to face the challenges and opportunities that come our way. Just as a traveler prepares for a journey by gathering provisions, we must prepare ourselves spiritually, intellectually, and morally to navigate through life's trials and blessings.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that it calls upon us to be proactive in our approach to life. We must strive to be prepared for any situation, whether it brings success or adversity. This preparation involves acquiring knowledge, developing good character, and strengthening our relationship with Allah. By doing so, we can navigate through the challenges of life with wisdom and resilience.

Furthermore, this Hadith reminds us of the importance of treating others with fairness and justice. Regardless of whether someone brings us felicity or wretchedness, we should respond with kindness, compassion, and integrity. The Quran emphasizes the importance of treating others justly in numerous verses, such as Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), where Allah says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the inevitability of encounters with various individuals in our lives. It urges us to be prepared for any situation, whether it brings success or adversity. This preparation involves acquiring knowledge, developing good character, and strengthening our relationship with Allah. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of treating others with fairness and justice, regardless of the outcomes they bring. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to be prepared for the challenges and blessings that lie ahead.