Hadith #7674

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our focus and concern on matters that will benefit us in the Hereafter, rather than being excessively preoccupied with worldly affairs. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (concern) "اِهْتِمَام", (accompany you) "يَصْحَبُكُمْ", (Hereafter) "الآخِرَةِ", and (this world) "الدُّنيا". "اِهْتِمَام" refers to the attention, care, and priority we give to something. "يَصْحَبُكُمْ" means to accompany or be with someone. "الآخِرَةِ" refers to the Hereafter, the eternal life that awaits us after death. And "الدُّنيا" refers to the transient and temporary world we currently reside in.

To understand the significance of Imam Ali's words, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly reminds us of the fleeting nature of this world and the everlasting nature of the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (57:20)

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like a rain whose vegetation pleases the tillers; then it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter, there is severe torment, and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly pursuits and the importance of focusing on the Hereafter. The pleasures and material possessions of this world may bring temporary satisfaction, but they will eventually fade away. On the other hand, the Hereafter is the realm of eternal consequences, where our actions in this world will determine our fate.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that our concern and attention should be directed towards actions and deeds that will benefit us in the Hereafter. This does not mean that we should neglect our responsibilities and duties in this world. Rather, it is a reminder to prioritize our actions and intentions, ensuring that they are aligned with the teachings of Islam and aimed at attaining success in the Hereafter.

For example, instead of solely focusing on accumulating wealth and material possessions, we should also strive to give in charity and help those in need, as Allah says in the Quran, (63:10)

And spend [in the way of Allah] from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, 'My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous'

Similarly, instead of seeking fame and recognition in this world, we should strive to attain the pleasure of Allah and seek His forgiveness, as Allah says, (51:50-51)

So flee to Allah. Indeed, I am to you from Him a clear warner. And do not make [as equal] with Allah another deity. Indeed, I am to you from Him a clear warner

Imam Ali's words serve as a reminder that our ultimate goal should be to secure our place in the Hereafter, where true success lies. Our actions and choices in this world should be guided by the principles of Islam, seeking the pleasure of Allah and the attainment of eternal bliss. By prioritizing the Hereafter over the temporary pleasures of this world, we align ourselves with the teachings of the Quran and the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's profound Hadith urges us to prioritize our concern and attention towards actions and deeds that will benefit us in the Hereafter, rather than being excessively preoccupied with worldly affairs. By aligning our intentions and actions with the teachings of Islam, we can strive for success in both this world and the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all to the straight path and grant us success in the Hereafter.