Hadith #3851

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,

مَنْ أعْرَضَ عَنِ الدُّنيا أتَتْهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who turns away from this world is approached by it.

Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this thought-provoking Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (a'radha) "أعْرَضَ" means to turn away or to divert one's attention. The word (ad-dunya) "الدُّنيا" refers to the temporal world, the materialistic aspects of life that often distract us from our spiritual journey. The word (atathu) "أتَتْهُ" means it approaches or comes to him.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of detachment from the materialistic world and focusing on the eternal realm. It teaches us that when one turns away from the allurements and distractions of this worldly life, it will naturally approach them. This does not mean that one should completely abandon their responsibilities or neglect their worldly affairs, but rather to prioritize the spiritual aspects of life over the materialistic ones.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77),

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse highlights the importance of striking a balance between the worldly affairs and the pursuit of the Hereafter. It encourages us to seek the rewards of the Hereafter while fulfilling our responsibilities in this world. By turning away from the excessive love of worldly possessions and focusing on the eternal realm, we can attain true success and contentment.

Another verse that complements the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that the pleasures and attractions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They are like a passing rain that brings temporary joy but eventually fades away. The true essence of life lies in the Hereafter, where eternal rewards and punishments await us. Therefore, turning away from the temporary allurements of this world and focusing on the eternal realm is the path to true success and fulfillment.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, highlights the consequences of turning away from this world. When one diverts their attention from the materialistic aspects of life, they become more focused on their spiritual growth, their relationship with Allah, and their pursuit of righteousness. This detachment from worldly distractions allows them to attain a higher level of consciousness and awareness of the divine presence.

Moreover, when one turns away from the materialistic world, they become less attached to worldly possessions and desires. This detachment liberates them from the constant pursuit of wealth, power, and status, which often lead to greed, envy, and discontentment. Instead, they find contentment and tranquility in the remembrance of Allah and the pursuit of virtuous deeds.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of turning away from the distractions and allurements of this world. By prioritizing our spiritual growth and focusing on the eternal realm, we can attain true success and contentment. This does not mean neglecting our worldly responsibilities, but rather striking a balance between the materialistic aspects of life and the pursuit of the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us the wisdom to prioritize the eternal over the temporary.