Hadith #271

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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was asked about the distance between the East and the West. His response was concise yet profound:

One day's traveling for the sun.

This statement holds deep wisdom and insight, which can be understood by delving into the meanings of the words used.

The word (masiratu) "مَسِيرَةُ" refers to the distance or journey traveled, while (yawm) "يَوْمٍ" means a day. The phrase (lil-shams) "لِلشَّمْسِ" means "for the sun." When we combine these words, we understand that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is referring to the distance that the sun travels in one day.

To further comprehend the connotation of this hadith, we can turn to the Quran, which provides us with guidance and enlightenment. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Ya-Sin, verse 38:

And the sun runs [on course] toward its stopping point. That is the determination of the Exalted in Might, the Knowing.

This verse emphasizes the movement of the sun and its predetermined course. The sun's journey is not aimless or random; it follows a precise path set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This alignment with the divine plan highlights the significance of the distance traveled by the sun in one day.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 33, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

And it is He who created the night and the day and the sun and the moon; all [heavenly bodies] in an orbit are swimming.

This verse reminds us that the sun, along with other celestial bodies, is in constant motion and follows a precise orbit. The sun's continuous movement signifies the vastness of its journey and the immense distance it covers in a single day.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) response to the question about the distance between East and West being equivalent to one day's travel for the sun holds profound implications. It highlights the vastness of the earth and the immense power and magnitude of Allah's creation.

Moreover, this hadith serves as a reminder of the limited nature of human knowledge and perception. As humans, we may perceive the distance between East and West as vast and insurmountable. However, in the grand scheme of the universe, this distance is merely a fraction of the sun's daily journey.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) response also teaches us humility and the importance of recognizing our place in the vastness of Allah's creation. It encourages us to ponder upon the wonders of the universe and the limitless power of our Creator.

Furthermore, this hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking knowledge and expanding our horizons. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was renowned for his vast knowledge and wisdom, and his response to this question showcases his deep understanding of the natural world.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) regarding the distance between East and West being equivalent to one day's travel for the sun holds profound wisdom and insight. It reminds us of the vastness of Allah's creation, the limited nature of human perception, and the importance of seeking knowledge and reflecting upon the wonders of the universe. May we strive to deepen our understanding and appreciation of Allah's creation and seek wisdom from the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).