Hadith #7740

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 phrase "مَنْ عَمِلَ اِشْتاقَ۔" from the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) can be translated as

One who works [for the Hereafter] yearns [for it].

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims, regardless of their sect.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us first explore the key words used. The word (amila) "عَمِلَ" means to work or perform actions. It signifies engaging in righteous deeds and striving to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (ishtaqa) "اِشْتاقَ" means to yearn or long for something. It implies a deep desire and longing for the Hereafter, the eternal life that awaits us after death.

The essence of this Hadith can be found in numerous verses of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of striving for the Hereafter and yearning for Paradise. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 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 and that our true reward will be granted in the Hereafter. It encourages us to work diligently for the sake of Allah, seeking His pleasure and the ultimate reward of Paradise. Those who yearn for the Hereafter understand the temporary nature of this worldly life and prioritize their actions accordingly.

Another verse that aligns with the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46:

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and relationships, emphasizing that true success lies in the enduring good deeds that we accumulate in this life. It encourages us to prioritize our actions and intentions, focusing on the deeds that will bring us closer to Allah and secure our place in the Hereafter.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can derive several profound insights. Firstly, it reminds us that mere belief or verbal expressions of faith are not sufficient. True faith requires action, as our deeds are a reflection of our innermost convictions. It is through our actions that we demonstrate our yearning for the Hereafter and our dedication to pleasing Allah.

Secondly, this Hadith emphasizes the importance of having a sincere and profound longing for the Hereafter. It serves as a reminder that our ultimate goal should not be the temporary pleasures of this world, but rather the eternal bliss of Paradise. By yearning for the Hereafter, we align our intentions and actions with the purpose of our existence and strive for a higher level of spirituality.

Furthermore, this Hadith encourages Muslims to continuously work towards their spiritual growth and development. It serves as a motivation to engage in acts of worship, seek knowledge, and purify our hearts. By consistently striving for the Hereafter, we cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment in our lives, knowing that our efforts will be rewarded in the eternal realm.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

One who works [for the Hereafter] yearns [for it]

serves as a powerful reminder for all Muslims. It urges us to prioritize our actions and intentions, striving for the Hereafter and seeking the pleasure of Allah. By understanding the temporary nature of this world and yearning for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter, we can lead a purposeful and fulfilling life, guided by the teachings of the Quran and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family. May Allah grant us the ability to work sincerely for the Hereafter and to yearn for it with all our hearts.