Hadith #9981

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لِكُلِّ ناجِم أُفُولٌ۔" which translates to

For every rising one there is a setting.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries deep wisdom and can be understood in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word (najim) "ناجِم" refers to anything that rises or ascends, while (uful) "أُفُولٌ۔" means a setting or decline. This Hadith can be interpreted in various ways, but one possible understanding is that it highlights the transient nature of worldly affairs. Just as the sun rises and sets, everything in this world has a beginning and an end. This includes the rise and fall of nations, the cycles of life and death, and the ebb and flow of human experiences.

The Quran supports this understanding by reminding us of the impermanence of worldly matters. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (57:20)

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 emphasizes that the attractions and achievements of this world are temporary and fleeting. Just as the rain brings forth lush greenery, it eventually dries up and withers away. Similarly, the rise of individuals or nations is followed by a decline. This is a reminder for Muslims to not become attached to the materialistic aspects of this world, but rather focus on the eternal and everlasting rewards of the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life. Just as the sun rises and sets each day, our lives are filled with ups and downs, successes and failures. This understanding is beautifully captured in the Quranic verse, (90:4)

And We have certainly created man into hardship.

This verse reminds us that trials and tribulations are an inherent part of our existence. Just as the sun sets after a day of brightness, we too experience moments of darkness and difficulty. However, just as the sun rises again, bringing a new day, we are also given the opportunity to rise above our challenges and strive for growth and success.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement can also be understood in the context of knowledge and wisdom. Just as the sun rises to illuminate the world, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom. His teachings continue to guide and inspire Muslims to this day. However, just as the sun sets, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) physical presence in this world came to an end. Yet, his legacy and teachings continue to shine brightly, guiding Muslims towards the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

For every rising one there is a setting

reminds us of the transient nature of worldly affairs, the cyclical nature of life, and the impermanence of materialistic pursuits. It serves as a reminder to focus on the eternal rewards of the hereafter and to seek knowledge and wisdom that will continue to illuminate our lives even after our physical presence in this world comes to an end. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to reflect upon these profound teachings and guide us on the straight path.