Hadith #662

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, "الإصْطِحابُ قليلٌ۔" which translates to

The companionship [in this world] is short.

This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) holds deep meaning and wisdom that can be further understood through the teachings of the Quran.

In order to comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us first explore the key words used. The term "الإصْطِحابُ" refers to companionship or association with others. It implies the act of being in the company of someone, sharing experiences, and forming relationships. The word "قليلٌ" signifies something that is short or limited in duration.

To shed light on the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us 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 emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and relationships. While companionship and worldly ties may bring temporary joy and comfort, they are fleeting in nature and do not hold eternal value.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 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.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly pursuits and the temporary nature of companionship in this life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that while companionship and relationships are important aspects of our lives, we should not become overly attached to them. We must recognize that these worldly associations are limited in duration and will eventually come to an end. This understanding allows us to prioritize our focus on the eternal and everlasting companionship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

By reflecting on this Hadith, we are encouraged to invest our time and efforts in cultivating a strong relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through acts of worship, seeking knowledge, and performing good deeds. These are the deeds that will accompany us in the hereafter and bring us everlasting rewards.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the temporary nature of worldly companionship. This Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) above all else. It encourages us to detach ourselves from the transient nature of this world and focus on building a strong relationship with our Creator.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that companionship in this world is short-lived and temporary. It urges us to prioritize our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and invest in actions that will bring us eternal rewards. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this world and guide us on the path of righteousness.