Hadith #1479

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action in performing righteous deeds. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises Muslims to hasten in doing good while their bodies are healthy, their tongues are untied, the cry of repentance is heard, and their deeds are accepted.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions the importance of acting while the bodies are healthy. This highlights the transient nature of life and the uncertainty of our physical well-being. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:115) that every soul shall taste death, and it is only in this worldly life that we have the opportunity to perform good deeds. Therefore, it is crucial for Muslims to seize the moment and utilize their physical capabilities to engage in acts of worship and righteousness.

Secondly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions the importance of untied tongues. This refers to the ability to freely express oneself and communicate effectively. In the context of this Hadith, it signifies the opportunity to spread knowledge, wisdom, and guidance. The Quran emphasizes the significance of using our tongues for good purposes in Surah Al-A'raf (7:205), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And remember your Lord within yourself in humility and in fear without being apparent in speech - in the mornings and the evenings. And do not be among the heedless.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions the cry of repentance being heard. This highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness and turning back to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) with sincere remorse for our sins. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the concept of repentance, such as in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:222), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions the importance of performing deeds that are accepted. This implies that not all actions are equal in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Quran emphasizes the quality of deeds in Surah Al-Kahf (18:30), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds - indeed, We will not allow to be lost the reward of any who did well in deeds.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that it urges Muslims to seize the opportunity to perform good deeds while they have the physical ability, the freedom of expression, the chance to seek forgiveness, and the ability to engage in accepted actions. It serves as a reminder that life is fleeting, and we must make the most of the time we have been given to strive for righteousness and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to act upon this advice of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and enable us to utilize our time and abilities in the pursuit of goodness and righteousness. May He accept our repentance and grant us the ability to perform deeds that are pleasing to Him. Ameen.