Hadith #564

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who is certain about his Hereafter thinks no more of this world.

This amazing Hadith encapsulates the essence of true faith and the importance of prioritizing the eternal life over the temporary pleasures of this world.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (aiqana) "أيقَنَ" means to have certainty or firm belief. It signifies a level of conviction that goes beyond mere belief or assumption. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to having unwavering faith in the existence and significance of the Hereafter.

The term (al-akhira) "الآخِرَةِ" refers to the Hereafter, the life after death that awaits every individual. It encompasses the Day of Judgment, Paradise, and Hellfire. Belief in the Hereafter is a fundamental pillar of Islam, as it reminds us that our actions in this world have consequences in the eternal realm.

The phrase (sala 'ani ad-dunya) "سَلا عَنِ الدُّنيا" translates to

thinks no more of this world.

It implies that a person who is truly certain about the Hereafter does not become excessively attached to the materialistic pursuits and transient pleasures of this worldly life. Their focus shifts towards preparing for the eternal life and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201),

And of them are some who say, 'Our Lord, give us in this world,' and for such there will be no portion in the Hereafter.

This verse highlights the danger of becoming too engrossed in worldly desires and neglecting the Hereafter. Those who prioritize worldly gains over spiritual growth and righteous deeds will find themselves devoid of any share in the eternal life. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to strike a balance between their worldly responsibilities and their spiritual obligations.

Another verse that resonates with the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world. But the good righteous deeds that last, are better with your Lord for rewards and better in respect of hope.

This verse emphasizes that while wealth and worldly possessions may bring temporary pleasure and status, they are merely adornments of this worldly life. True success lies in performing righteous deeds that have lasting value and are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Muslims are encouraged to prioritize actions that will benefit them in the Hereafter, rather than being consumed by the pursuit of worldly gains.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that true faith necessitates a shift in perspective. It requires us to recognize the transient nature of this world and to prioritize our actions and intentions based on the eternal life that awaits us.

By being certain about the Hereafter, we develop a mindset that enables us to detach from the allure of worldly pleasures and focus on actions that will benefit us in the long run. This does not mean that we should completely abandon our responsibilities in this world, but rather, we should approach them with the understanding that they are a means to attain success in the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the certainty of the Hereafter and the wisdom to prioritize our actions accordingly. May we strive to strike a balance between our worldly pursuits and our spiritual growth, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all that we do. And may He guide us to the path of righteousness and grant us success in both this world and the Hereafter.