Hadith #4569

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of renouncing worldly pleasures and not being negligent in our duties. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (izhad) "اِزْهَدْ" in the Hadith means to renounce or detach oneself from the excessive pursuit of worldly desires and pleasures. It encourages Muslims to prioritize the spiritual and eternal aspects of life over the temporary and materialistic aspects. This concept is beautifully echoed in the Quran in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that the pleasures and attractions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They may bring temporary joy and satisfaction, but they do not hold any lasting value. By renouncing these worldly pleasures, we gain a deeper understanding of the flaws and shortcomings inherent in them. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises to show us these flaws, allowing us to see through the illusion and deception of worldly attractions.

The second part of the Hadith states, (wa la taghful falasta bimaghfool anka)

وَلا تَغْفُلْ فَلَسْتَ بِمَغْفُول عَنكَ

which translates to

and do not be negligent, for you are not neglected.

This part serves as a reminder for Muslims to remain vigilant and attentive in fulfilling their obligations towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and their fellow human beings. It emphasizes the importance of being active and engaged in our responsibilities, rather than being complacent or neglectful.

The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Imran, verse 102, beautifully complements this part of the Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him].

This verse reminds us of the importance of maintaining a state of consciousness and awareness of Allah's presence in our lives. It urges us to be mindful of our actions and to fulfill our duties diligently, knowing that we are not neglected or forgotten by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on the wise message of this Hadith, we realize that by renouncing worldly pleasures and remaining vigilant in our duties, we attain a higher level of spiritual insight and awareness. We become more attuned to the flaws and shortcomings of the materialistic world, and we are able to prioritize our actions and intentions in accordance with the teachings of Islam. This leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful life, both in this world and in the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to renounce vain pleasures, remain vigilant in our duties, and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives. Ameen.