Hadith #4854

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and upon his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

السَعِيدُ مَنِ اسْتَهانَ بِالمَفْقُودِ

which translates to

The felicitous is one who considers that which is lost [to him] as insignificant.

In this thought-provoking Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the virtue of contentment and the importance of not dwelling on what has been lost or missed.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The term (the felicitous) "السَعِيدُ" refers to the one who is truly fortunate and blessed. It signifies a state of inner peace, contentment, and satisfaction. (considers as insignificant) "اسْتَهانَ" means to belittle or regard something as unimportant. And (that which is lost) "المَفْقُودِ" refers to something that has been lost or missed out on.

To further elucidate the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:216),

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse reminds us that what we perceive as a loss or a missed opportunity may actually be a blessing in disguise. Our limited understanding cannot comprehend the wisdom behind Allah's plans, and thus, it is essential for us to trust in His divine wisdom and accept His decree.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Isra (17:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And when We bestow favor upon man, he turns away and distances himself; but when evil touches him, then he is full of extensive supplication.

This verse highlights the tendency of human beings to focus on what they have lost or what they lack, while neglecting the countless blessings bestowed upon them. It reminds us to be grateful for what we have and not to become consumed by what we perceive as losses.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to adopt a positive mindset and not to dwell on what we have lost or missed out on. Instead, it reminds us to focus on the present moment and appreciate the blessings that surround us. By considering that which is lost as insignificant, we free ourselves from the burden of regret and disappointment. This mindset allows us to move forward with resilience and gratitude, recognizing that Allah's plans are perfect and that He has something better in store for us.

For example, if we experience a missed opportunity in our career, we should not dwell on it and let it consume us. Instead, we should trust in Allah's wisdom and believe that He has a better plan for us. Perhaps this loss will lead us to a different path that aligns more closely with our true purpose and brings us greater fulfillment. By adopting this mindset, we can find contentment and peace in every situation, knowing that Allah's plans are always for our ultimate benefit.

Moreover, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us the importance of letting go of attachments to worldly possessions and desires. In Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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.

This verse reminds us that material possessions and worldly achievements are temporary and fleeting. True felicity lies in the pursuit of good deeds and the cultivation of a righteous character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to adopt a mindset of contentment and gratitude. By considering that which is lost as insignificant, we free ourselves from the burden of regret and disappointment. Instead, we focus on the present moment and appreciate the blessings that surround us. This mindset allows us to trust in Allah's wisdom and believe that He has something better in store for us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embrace this teaching and find true felicity in our lives.