Hadith #9511

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لاخَيْرَ في لَذَّة لاتَبْقى۔

This Hadith emphasizes the idea that there is no goodness or benefit in a pleasure that is temporary and fleeting.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us examine the key words and their implications. The word (ladhdha) "لَذَّة" refers to pleasure or enjoyment, and it implies a sense of satisfaction and contentment. The word (la tabqa) "لاتَبْقى" means that which does not last or endure. It signifies the transient nature of certain pleasures that may bring temporary joy but ultimately fade away.

This Hadith can be further elucidated by reflecting upon several Quranic verses that shed light on the concept of lasting and transient pleasures. 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 pleasures of this world are temporary and illusory. They are merely a fleeting enjoyment that will not endure beyond the limited lifespan of this worldly existence. True and everlasting pleasure lies in the eternal abode of Paradise, where the rewards for righteous actions will be granted in their fullness.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 transient nature of worldly possessions and relationships, which are often pursued for the sake of pleasure. While they may bring temporary delight, their true value lies in the good deeds that are performed for the sake of Allah. These enduring good deeds are what truly matter and hold significance in the sight of Allah.

Reflecting upon the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of these Quranic verses, we understand that the pursuit of temporary pleasures without consideration for their lasting consequences is futile. Such pleasures may provide momentary satisfaction, but they do not bring true and lasting benefit to the individual.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us to prioritize actions and pleasures that have lasting value and benefit. This Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims to focus on actions that will bring eternal rewards and to seek pleasure in acts of worship, obedience to Allah, and service to humanity.

By internalizing the message of this Hadith, Muslims are encouraged to evaluate their choices and prioritize actions that have lasting impact and benefit. It serves as a call to seek pleasure in acts of charity, kindness, and devotion to Allah, rather than in fleeting worldly pleasures that do not contribute to our spiritual growth and ultimate salvation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that there is no goodness or benefit in pleasures that do not endure. It reminds us to prioritize actions that have lasting value and to seek pleasure in acts of worship and obedience to Allah. May Allah guide us to seek true and lasting pleasure and grant us the ability to prioritize actions that bring us closer to Him.