Hadith #6077

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "كُلُّ طالِب مَطْلُوبٌ۔" This can be translated as,

Every seeker is [himself] sought [by death].

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (taalib) "طالِب" in this Hadith refers to a seeker or one who is in pursuit of something. It signifies a person who is actively seeking knowledge, truth, guidance, or any other objective in life. This word emphasizes the importance of seeking and striving for knowledge and understanding.

On the other hand, the word (matlub) "مَطْلُوبٌ" means sought or desired. It implies that every seeker, regardless of their pursuit, is ultimately sought by death. Death is an inevitable reality that seeks every living being, irrespective of their status, wealth, or knowledge. It is a reminder of the transient nature of this worldly life and the certainty of our return to our Creator.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that shed light on the concept of death and the transient nature of this worldly life. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:57),

Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.

This verse emphasizes the universal reality of death and the fact that every soul will inevitably experience it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 highlights the temporary nature of this worldly life and the importance of seeking the rewards of the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims. It reminds us that regardless of our pursuits in this world, whether it be knowledge, wealth, or any other goal, death is an inevitable reality that will catch up to us. It urges us to reflect upon the purpose of our existence and prioritize the pursuit of knowledge, righteousness, and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

This Hadith encourages us to be mindful of our actions and intentions in this temporary world. It reminds us that the pursuit of worldly desires alone is futile and that we should strive for the eternal rewards of the hereafter. It serves as a motivation to seek knowledge and guidance from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny.

Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the importance of preparing for the inevitable meeting with death. It urges us to constantly reflect upon our actions and strive to lead a righteous life, for death can come upon us at any moment. It reminds us to make the most of our time in this world by engaging in acts of worship, seeking knowledge, and benefiting others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "كُلُّ طالِب مَطْلُوبٌ۔" carries a enlightening message for all Muslims. It emphasizes the transient nature of this worldly life and the certainty of death. It urges us to prioritize the pursuit of knowledge, righteousness, and the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and motivation to seek knowledge and prepare for the meeting with death.