طُوبى لِمَنْ ذَكَرَ المَعادَ فَاسْتَكْثَرَ مِنَ الزَّادِ۔
Blessed is the one who remembers the [Day of] Resurrection and thus increases his provisions.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Resurrection And The Hour)
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:
طُوبى لِمَنْ ذَكَرَ المَعادَ فَاسْتَكْثَرَ مِنَ الزَّادِ۔
This can be translated as:
Blessed is the one who remembers the [Day of] Resurrection and thus increases his provisions.
Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (dhakara) "ذَكَرَ" means to remember or to mention. It signifies an act of remembrance that is not merely superficial, but rather a deep contemplation and reflection on the Day of Resurrection. The word (al-ma'ad) "المَعادَ" refers to the Day of Resurrection, the Day when all human beings will be resurrected and held accountable for their actions in this world. And the word (zad) "زَّادِ" means provisions or sustenance.
To understand the enlightening message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197):
And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.
This verse emphasizes the importance of preparing for the Day of Resurrection by increasing our provisions of piety and God-consciousness. It is through the remembrance of the Day of Resurrection that we are motivated to accumulate provisions that will benefit us in the Hereafter.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), 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 worldly possessions and material wealth we accumulate in this life are temporary and fleeting. They will not benefit us in the Hereafter. However, the provisions we gather for the Hereafter, such as good deeds, acts of worship, and sincere remembrance of Allah, will be our true sustenance in the eternal life to come.
By remembering the Day of Resurrection, we are motivated to increase our provisions of good deeds, seeking forgiveness, and strengthening our relationship with Allah. This remembrance instills in us a sense of urgency and purpose, guiding our actions and decisions towards that which will benefit us in the Hereafter.
The consequences of remembering the Day of Resurrection and increasing our provisions are manifold. Firstly, it brings about a transformation in our mindset and priorities. We become less attached to the material possessions of this world and more focused on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. This shift in perspective allows us to navigate the challenges and trials of life with patience and gratitude, knowing that our ultimate goal lies beyond this transient world.
Secondly, the remembrance of the Day of Resurrection inspires us to engage in acts of worship and obedience to Allah. It motivates us to perform our prayers diligently, give in charity generously, and treat others with kindness and compassion. These actions not only increase our provisions for the Hereafter but also have a positive impact on our relationships and society as a whole.
Lastly, the remembrance of the Day of Resurrection serves as a source of solace and comfort during times of difficulty and hardship. It reminds us that this world is temporary and that our true home lies in the Hereafter. This awareness provides us with the strength and resilience to face challenges with patience and trust in Allah's plan.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of remembering the Day of Resurrection and increasing our provisions for the Hereafter. It urges us to prioritize acts of worship, good deeds, and sincere remembrance of Allah over the accumulation of worldly possessions. By doing so, we not only secure our provisions for the eternal life to come but also experience a transformative shift in our mindset and priorities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with the ability to remember the Day of Resurrection and increase our provisions for the Hereafter.
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