Hadith #1306

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 mindset and behavior of a true believer in this world. Let us delve into the exegesis of this impactful saying .

Firstly, let us examine the important words in this Hadith. The word (believer) "مُؤمِنُ" refers to a person who has complete faith in Allah and follows the teachings of Islam. (looks) "يَنْظُرُ" signifies the believer's contemplation and reflection upon the world. (this world) "الدُّنيا" refers to the temporal and materialistic aspects of life. (eyes that derive lesson) "عَيْنِ الإعتِبارِ" highlights the believer's ability to extract valuable lessons and wisdom from their observations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that the believer (consumes from it only what is necessary)

يَقْتاتُ فيها بِبَطْنِ الإضْطِرارِ

This implies that the believer refrains from excessive indulgence in worldly desires and possessions. They prioritize their needs over their wants, recognizing that true contentment lies in moderation and simplicity.

Moreover, the believer (hears in it with ears of hatred and enmity [towards it])

يَسْمَعُ فيها بِأُذُنِ المَقْتِ والإبْغاضِ

This signifies that the believer listens to the negative aspects of this world, such as its temptations and distractions, with a sense of aversion and caution. They are aware of the potential harm that can be caused by being influenced by worldly desires, and thus maintain a guarded approach towards them.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 the true reward and fulfillment await us in the hereafter, and the pleasures of this world are temporary and illusory. It aligns with the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith, as he urges believers to view this world with a discerning eye and not be deceived by its fleeting attractions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

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 emphasizes the transitory nature of worldly pursuits and highlights the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come. It echoes the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith, as he encourages believers to consume only what is necessary from this world, recognizing that excessive attachment to its materialistic aspects can lead to spiritual detriment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to adopt a mindful and balanced approach towards this world. It urges believers to derive lessons from their observations, consume only what is necessary, and maintain a cautious attitude towards the temptations of this world. By doing so, believers can prioritize their spiritual growth and focus on the ultimate reward that awaits them in the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and live a life that is pleasing to Him.