Hadith #541

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الآخرَةُ أبَدٌ۔" which translates to

The Hereafter is everlasting.

This concise statement holds meaning and serves as a reminder of the eternal nature of the Hereafter.

The word (Hereafter) "آخرَةُ" refers to the life that awaits us after death, the realm of the afterlife. It encompasses the concept of the eternal abode where the souls of individuals will reside after their worldly existence comes to an end. It is a realm beyond our limited comprehension, where the consequences of our actions in this world will be fully realized.

The term (everlasting) "أبَدٌ" emphasizes the eternal nature of the Hereafter. It signifies that the life in the Hereafter is without end, without any limitations of time or space. It is a realm where the rewards and punishments for our deeds in this world will be everlasting.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the concept of the everlasting nature of the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:82),

And those who disbelieve and deny Our signs - those are the companions of the Fire; they will abide therein eternally.

This verse clearly states that the disbelievers will remain in the Fire forever, emphasizing the eternal nature of the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hijr (15:99), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty (death).

This verse highlights the importance of worshipping Allah until the certainty of death, which is the gateway to the everlasting Hereafter.

The exegesis of this Hadith reminds us of the importance of recognizing the eternal nature of the Hereafter. It serves as a motivation for us to strive for righteousness and to lead a life in accordance with the teachings of Islam. Our actions in this world have consequences that extend beyond our limited existence here, and it is in the Hereafter that we will truly reap the rewards or face the consequences of our deeds.

Reflecting upon the everlasting nature of the Hereafter should instill in us a sense of urgency and a desire to prioritize our spiritual growth. It should serve as a reminder that the temporary pleasures and distractions of this world are insignificant compared to the eternal bliss or torment that awaits us in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, reminds us through this Hadith that the Hereafter is not a fleeting existence but an everlasting reality. It is a call to prioritize our actions and intentions in this world, keeping in mind the eternal consequences that await us.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and guidance to live our lives in accordance with His commands, and may He bless us with success in the Hereafter.