اَلنّاسُ رجُلانِ طالبٌ لايَجِدُ وواجِدٌ لا يَكْتَفِي۔
People are of two types: the seeker who does not find [what he is looking for] and the finder who is not satisfied [with what he has found].
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: People)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he beautifully describes the two types of people in this world. The first type is the seeker, who is constantly searching for something, but unfortunately, does not find what he is looking for. The second type is the finder, who has found what he was seeking, yet remains unsatisfied and continues to yearn for more.
Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (talib) "طالب" refers to the seeker, someone who is actively seeking knowledge, guidance, or fulfillment. This word encompasses the idea of a person who is in pursuit of something, whether it be material or spiritual. On the other hand, the word (wajid) "واجِد" refers to the finder, someone who has found what they were looking for. However, despite finding what they sought, they are not content and still feel a sense of emptiness.
This Hadith holds a enlightening message for all Muslims. It reminds us that the journey of seeking knowledge, guidance, and fulfillment is a lifelong one. It highlights the importance of continuously striving for improvement and growth, even if we have achieved a certain level of success or found what we were searching for. It teaches us that true satisfaction lies not in the attainment of worldly desires, but in the constant pursuit of spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).
The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:
And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.
This verse emphasizes the importance of continuously seeking piety and righteousness, as it is the best provision for our journey in this world.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:
And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.
This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support throughout our journey, both in this world and the hereafter.
Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that the seeker who does not find and the finder who is not satisfied are both in need of continuous growth and improvement. The seeker must persevere in their quest for knowledge, guidance, and fulfillment, while the finder must strive to deepen their understanding and connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to never become complacent in their spiritual journey and to always strive for more.
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was the epitome of knowledge and wisdom. His deep understanding of the Quran and his unwavering commitment to seeking knowledge are well-known among Muslims. He was not only a seeker but also a finder, as he possessed immense knowledge and wisdom. However, he never ceased to seek more knowledge and guidance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).
In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims. It teaches us the importance of continuously seeking knowledge, guidance, and fulfillment, even if we have achieved a certain level of success. It reminds us that true satisfaction lies not in the attainment of worldly desires, but in the constant pursuit of spiritual growth and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to be seekers who find and finders who are satisfied.
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