Hadith #4600

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.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of embracing asceticism and renouncing worldly pleasures. The word (zuhd) "زُّهْدِ" in Arabic refers to abstaining from the materialistic aspects of life and focusing on the spiritual realm. It entails detachment from the allurements of this world and redirecting one's attention towards the worship of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the significance of zuhd, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like the rain, its vegetation pleases the tillers, then it withers and you see it turning yellow, then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter, there is severe torment, and forgiveness from Allah and (His) pleasure. And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and the deceptive allure they hold. It reminds us that the true purpose of our existence lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter. By embracing zuhd, we detach ourselves from the temporary pleasures of this world and focus on the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world. But the good righteous deeds that last, are better with your Lord for rewards and better in respect of hope.

This verse reminds us that while wealth and children may be seen as adornments in this worldly life, they hold no value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) unless they are accompanied by righteous deeds. Zuhd helps us prioritize our actions and intentions, ensuring that we do not become overly attached to worldly possessions and instead focus on cultivating our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Embracing zuhd has profound consequences for our spiritual growth and the preservation of our faith. By renouncing worldly pleasures, we free ourselves from the distractions that can lead us astray from the path of righteousness. It allows us to develop a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strengthens our resolve to fulfill our religious obligations.

Moreover, zuhd serves as a means of purifying our hearts and increasing our gratitude towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When we detach ourselves from the materialistic aspects of life, we become more aware of the blessings bestowed upon us by our Creator. We learn to appreciate the simple pleasures and recognize that true happiness lies in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the pursuit of His pleasure.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, advises us to embrace zuhd because he understands the detrimental effects of excessive attachment to worldly possessions. He encourages us to prioritize our faith and seek solace in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By following his guidance, we can attain spiritual tranquility and strengthen our relationship with our Creator.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of embracing zuhd and renouncing worldly pleasures. By doing so, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of our Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Zuhd allows us to detach from the transient nature of this world and focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. It purifies our hearts, strengthens our faith, and brings us closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody the spirit of zuhd and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives.