Hadith #3989

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Religion exalts, this world humiliates.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual journey over worldly pursuits.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. The word (deen) "دين" refers to religion, encompassing the beliefs, practices, and values that guide a person's life. It is a comprehensive term that includes one's relationship with Allah, their moral conduct, and their obligations towards others. The word (yujillu) "يُجِلُّ" means to exalt, honor, or elevate. It signifies the elevated status and dignity that religion bestows upon an individual.

On the other hand, the word (dunya) "دُنْيَا" refers to the temporal world, the materialistic aspects of life, and the pursuit of worldly desires. It is characterized by its transient nature and the constant changes and challenges it presents. The word (tuzillu) "تُذِلُّ" means to humiliate, degrade, or lower in status. It signifies the inherent limitations and shortcomings of worldly pursuits, which can lead to disappointment, emptiness, and a loss of spiritual fulfillment.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true honor and nobility lie in righteousness and piety, not in worldly status or material possessions. It echoes the message of Imam Ali's Hadith, highlighting the exalted status that religion confers upon an individual. By adhering to the principles of Islam and striving to please Allah, one attains a higher spiritual rank and is elevated above the transient pursuits of this world.

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

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 reminds us that while worldly possessions may bring temporary pleasure and adornment, they do not hold lasting value in the sight of Allah. It is the enduring good deeds, rooted in faith and devotion, that truly matter and bring eternal rewards.

Imam Ali's Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize their religious obligations and spiritual growth over the pursuit of worldly desires. It urges us to seek honor and exaltation through the practice of our faith, rather than being consumed by the temporary allurements of this world.

By focusing on our relationship with Allah, performing acts of worship, and embodying the teachings of Islam, we elevate ourselves spiritually and attain a sense of fulfillment and purpose that transcends the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits. This does not mean that we should completely disregard our responsibilities in this world, but rather, we should approach them with the understanding that our ultimate purpose lies in pleasing Allah and seeking His pleasure.

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

Religion exalts, this world humiliates

serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual journey and seek honor through the practice of their faith. It calls us to reflect on the transient nature of worldly pursuits and the lasting value of adhering to the principles of Islam. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to understand the true meaning of this Hadith.