Hadith #3774

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The cause of wretchedness is love of this world.

This thought-provoking saying highlights the detrimental consequences of being overly attached to the materialistic aspects of this worldly life. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (shaqāwah) "شَقَاوَة" in Arabic refers to wretchedness, misery, or unhappiness. It signifies a state of distress and dissatisfaction that one experiences in their life. On the other hand, the phrase (ḥubbud-dunyā) "حُبُّ الدُّنيا" means the love of this world. It refers to an excessive attachment and desire for worldly possessions, wealth, and pleasures.

The Quran provides several verses that emphasize the transitory nature of this world and the importance of prioritizing the eternal life hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:185),

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that death is inevitable for every soul, and the true reward for our actions will be given in the hereafter. It highlights the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and urges us to focus on the eternal rewards of the afterlife. The love of this world can blind us from the reality of the hereafter and lead us astray from the path of righteousness.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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.

This verse beautifully illustrates the temporary nature of worldly pursuits. It compares the attractions of this world to the transient growth of plants after rainfall, which eventually wither away. It highlights the futility of competing for wealth and worldly possessions, as they hold no lasting value. The pursuit of such temporary pleasures can lead to a state of wretchedness and discontentment when they inevitably fade away.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual well-being over worldly desires. When one becomes excessively attached to the materialistic aspects of this world, their focus shifts away from the remembrance of Allah and the pursuit of righteous deeds. This love for the world can lead to a neglect of the soul, resulting in a state of wretchedness and spiritual deprivation.

By recognizing the temporary nature of this world and redirecting our love and attachment towards the eternal rewards of the hereafter, we can find true contentment and happiness. This does not mean that we should completely detach ourselves from the world, but rather strike a balance between fulfilling our worldly responsibilities and maintaining a strong connection with Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious of excessive attachment to the materialistic aspects of this world. It highlights the detrimental consequences of being overly consumed by worldly desires and urges us to prioritize our spiritual well-being. By seeking the pleasure of Allah and focusing on the eternal rewards of the hereafter, we can attain true happiness and avoid the wretchedness that comes with an excessive love for this world. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and protect us from the allure of worldly distractions.