Hadith #3810

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May 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 يَسارِ الدُّنيا إعْسارٌ۔

This can be translated as,

Every ease of this world is difficulty.

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

The word (yasar) "يَسَار" in this Hadith refers to ease, comfort, or convenience. It encompasses all the worldly pleasures and luxuries that we may encounter in our lives. On the other hand, the word (i'sar) "إعْسار" means difficulty, hardship, or adversity. It signifies the challenges and trials that we face in this worldly life.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Balad, verse 4,

Verily, We have created man in toil.

This verse highlights the inherent nature of human existence, which is marked by struggles and hardships. It reminds us that life is not meant to be a constant state of ease and comfort.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 2, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?

This verse emphasizes that trials and difficulties are an integral part of our journey as believers. They serve as tests of our faith, patience, and resilience.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that even though the pleasures and comforts of this world may seem appealing and desirable, they are ultimately fleeting and temporary. They can often distract us from our true purpose in life, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and strive for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

For instance, wealth and material possessions may provide temporary happiness and convenience, but they can also lead to arrogance, greed, and neglect of our spiritual duties. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

Similarly, worldly success, fame, and power may bring temporary satisfaction, but they can also lead to pride, injustice, and the neglect of our responsibilities towards others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the transient nature of worldly comforts and to prioritize the pursuit of spiritual growth and righteousness. It teaches us that true success lies in overcoming the difficulties and challenges of this world, and in striving for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

By recognizing the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and the inherent difficulties they may bring, we can develop a balanced perspective and avoid becoming attached to the fleeting joys of this life. This understanding can motivate us to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through acts of worship, selflessness, and compassion towards others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that every ease and comfort of this world is ultimately a test and a means of spiritual growth. It urges us to prioritize the pursuit of the eternal rewards of the Hereafter over the temporary pleasures of this life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate the challenges of this world and attain success in the Hereafter.