Hadith #1114

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

عِنْدَ حُضُورِ الاجالِ تَظْهَرُ خَيْبَةُ الآمالِ۔

This can be translated as,

It is when death comes that the failure of hopes becomes apparent.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The word (hudur) "حُضُورِ" refers to the arrival or presence of something, and in this context, it signifies the arrival of death. The word (ajal) "اجالِ" refers to the appointed time or the end of one's life. Finally, the word (khaybah) "خَيْبَةُ" means disappointment or the feeling of hopelessness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the reality that when death approaches, it becomes evident that many of our hopes and aspirations remain unfulfilled. This is because death is a reminder of the transient nature of this world and the limited time we have to achieve our goals. It serves as a wake-up call to reflect upon the purpose of our existence and the priorities we have set for ourselves.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds support in the Quranic verses that emphasize the temporary nature of this worldly life and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:185):

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that death is inevitable for every soul, and the true reward and fulfillment of our hopes will be granted in the Hereafter. The fleeting pleasures and pursuits of this worldly life are merely an illusion that can lead to disappointment if we prioritize them over our eternal salvation.

Another verse that supports the message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith is found in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:99-100):

Until, when death comes to one of them, he says, 'My Lord, send me back. That I might do righteousness in that which I left behind.' No! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.

This verse highlights the regret and desire for another chance that some individuals will experience at the moment of death. However, it emphasizes that it will be too late to rectify one's deeds or fulfill unfulfilled aspirations. The barrier mentioned in the verse represents the separation between this worldly life and the Hereafter, signifying that there is no return once death arrives.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual journey and strive for righteousness in this temporary world. It urges us to reflect upon our hopes and aspirations and ensure that they align with the teachings of Islam and the pursuit of the Hereafter. By recognizing the transience of life and the certainty of death, we can redirect our efforts towards actions that will bring us true success and fulfillment in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a profound reminder of the fleeting nature of this world and the importance of prioritizing our eternal salvation. It urges us to reflect upon our hopes and aspirations and ensure that they are aligned with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can avoid the disappointment that comes with unfulfilled desires and instead strive for success in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to live a purposeful and righteous life.