Hadith #3578

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Draw near to the one to whom this world has yielded [itself], for indeed he is more worthy of prosperity [than the one who follows this world and its allure].

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of recognizing the true worth and value of individuals based on their relationship with this worldly life.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (aqbilu) "أقْبِلُوا" means to draw near or approach. It implies moving closer to someone or something. (man) "مَنْ" refers to the one who, and (aqbalat) "أقْبَلَتْ" means this world has yielded or submitted itself. The word (ad-dunya) "الدُّنيا" refers to the temporal world, the materialistic aspects of life that often distract and allure individuals.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to draw near to the one to whom this world has yielded itself. This means that we should seek the company and guidance of those individuals who have not been swayed by the allure and distractions of worldly possessions and desires. These individuals are more deserving of prosperity and success because they prioritize their spiritual growth and connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To support this exegesis, let us turn to the Quran. In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (28:77)

And seek by means of what Allah has given you the home of the Hereafter, and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking the Hereafter while not neglecting our responsibilities in this world. It encourages us to strike a balance between our material pursuits and our spiritual growth.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (18:45)

And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allah is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability

This verse illustrates the transient nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to evaluate the worth and value of individuals based on their spiritual connection and dedication to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), rather than their material wealth or worldly achievements. It urges us to prioritize the pursuit of spiritual growth and righteousness over the pursuit of worldly gains.

By drawing near to those who have not been swayed by the allure of this world, we can learn from their wisdom, piety, and dedication to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Their company can inspire us to detach ourselves from the materialistic aspects of life and focus on what truly matters in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This Hadith also serves as a reminder that true prosperity lies in the contentment of the heart and the closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), rather than in the accumulation of worldly possessions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us to draw near to those individuals who have not been swayed by the allure of this world. It encourages us to prioritize our spiritual growth and connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) over the pursuit of worldly gains. By seeking the company of such individuals, we can learn from their wisdom and dedication to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and ultimately attain true prosperity in this life and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us success in both worlds.