Hadith #9604

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لايُفْلِحُ مَنْ وَلِهَ بِاللَّعْبِ واسْتُهْتِرَ بِاللَّهْوِ والطَّرَبِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes that one who indulges excessively in idle sport, amusement, and entertainment will not achieve true success.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (la'b) "لَعْب" refers to idle sport or play, while (lahw) "اللَّهْو" denotes amusement or diversion. Lastly, (tarab) "الطَّرَب" refers to entertainment or pleasure-seeking activities.

To understand the wise message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-An'am, verse 32,

And the worldly life is not but amusement and diversion; but the home of the Hereafter is best for those who fear Allah, so will you not reason?

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly pleasures and emphasizes the importance of focusing on the eternal life in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mutaffifin, verses 26-28, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

Indeed, those who committed crimes used to laugh at those who believed. And when they passed by them, they would exchange derisive glances. And when they returned to their people, they would return jesting. And when they saw them, they would say, 'Indeed, those are truly lost.'

These verses highlight the consequences of indulging in idle amusement and entertainment. Those who prioritize worldly pleasures over their faith are prone to mocking and belittling those who strive for righteousness. They become heedless of the consequences of their actions and fail to recognize the true purpose of life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strike a balance between worldly activities and their spiritual journey. It does not imply that all forms of recreation and entertainment are forbidden. Islam encourages Muslims to engage in permissible forms of leisure to rejuvenate their minds and bodies.

However, the Hadith cautions against excessive indulgence in idle sport, amusement, and entertainment. When these activities consume a significant portion of one's time and distract them from fulfilling their religious obligations, they become detrimental to one's spiritual growth and success.

Excessive indulgence in idle sport and entertainment leads to a neglect of important responsibilities and obligations towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fellow human beings. It hinders personal development, weakens the connection with Allah, and diminishes the pursuit of knowledge and righteous deeds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, warns Muslims against falling into the trap of worldly distractions. He encourages us to prioritize our spiritual growth and strive for success in the Hereafter. By striking a balance between our worldly pursuits and our religious obligations, we can lead fulfilling lives and attain true success.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the potential pitfalls of excessive indulgence in idle sport, amusement, and entertainment. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual journey and strive for success in the Hereafter. By seeking a balance between our worldly pursuits and our religious obligations, we can lead meaningful lives and attain true success in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the right path and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.