Hadith #8364

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,

مَعَ الفَوْتِ تَكُونُ الحَسْرَةُ۔

This can be translated as

With loss there is regret.

In this amazing Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the natural human response to experiencing loss or failure.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words used. (fawt) "فَوْتِ" refers to the act of losing or missing out on something. It implies a sense of deprivation or being deprived of a desired outcome. (hasra) "حَسْرَةُ" refers to regret, sorrow, or remorse that one feels after experiencing loss or failure.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that shed light on the concept of loss and regret. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 14:42)

And never think that Allah is unaware of what the wrongdoers do. He only delays them for a Day when eyes will stare [in horror].

This verse reminds us that although wrongdoers may seem to be successful in this world, they will ultimately face regret and loss on the Day of Judgment.

Another verse in Surah Al-Hashr states, (Quran 59:18)

And never think that Allah is unaware of what the wrongdoers do. He only delays them for a Day when eyes will stare [in horror].

This verse emphasizes that those who engage in wrongdoing may appear to be gaining in this world, but their ultimate loss and regret will come in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the universal truth that loss and regret go hand in hand. When we experience loss, whether it be material, emotional, or spiritual, we naturally feel a sense of regret for what we have missed out on or failed to achieve. This regret can serve as a powerful motivator for self-reflection, growth, and improvement.

For example, if we fail to seize an opportunity for personal or professional development, we may later regret not taking action. This regret can inspire us to be more proactive in the future, to make the most of opportunities that come our way, and to learn from our past mistakes.

Similarly, if we neglect our spiritual obligations or engage in sinful behavior, we may experience a sense of loss and regret when we realize the consequences of our actions. This regret can lead us to seek forgiveness, repentance, and a renewed commitment to living a righteous life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that loss and regret are natural parts of the human experience. It encourages us to reflect on our actions, to learn from our mistakes, and to strive for improvement. By acknowledging our losses and embracing the lessons they teach us, we can grow spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually.

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

With loss there is regret

reminds us of the inevitable connection between loss and regret in our lives. It encourages us to use our experiences of loss as opportunities for self-reflection, growth, and improvement. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us to learn from our losses and to strive for success in this world and the Hereafter.