Hadith #4851

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

ما أقْرَبَ السُّعُودَ مِنَ النُّحُوسِ۔

This can be translated as,

How close are felicities to misfortunes!

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the delicate balance between happiness and sorrow in our lives.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. (as-su'ud) "السُّعُودَ" refers to felicities or blessings, while (an-nuhus) "النُّحُوسِ" refers to misfortunes or calamities. The word (aqrab) "أقْرَبَ" means close or near. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is emphasizing the proximity of these two contrasting aspects of life.

To understand the wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Inshirah (94:5-6),

Indeed, with hardship, there is relief. Indeed, with hardship, there is relief.

This verse reminds us that even in the midst of difficulties, there is always a glimmer of hope and relief. It is through the trials and tribulations that we appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Balad (90:4-5), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

We have certainly created man into hardship. Does he think that never will anyone overcome him?

These verses remind us that hardship is an inherent part of human existence. It is through facing challenges that we grow, learn, and develop resilience.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the interconnectedness of felicities and misfortunes. Just as day and night are inseparable, so too are happiness and sorrow intertwined. Without experiencing misfortunes, we may not fully appreciate the blessings in our lives. Similarly, without moments of joy and felicity, we may not have the strength to endure the trials that come our way.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to maintain a balanced perspective in life. It teaches us that both felicities and misfortunes are part of our journey, and we should approach them with patience and gratitude. When we encounter hardships, we should remember that they are temporary and that relief will come. And when we experience blessings, we should express gratitude to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and use those blessings to benefit others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified this balance through his profound knowledge and wisdom. He faced numerous challenges and tribulations throughout his life, yet he remained steadfast in his faith and dedication to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). His knowledge and understanding of the Quran allowed him to navigate through the complexities of life and guide others on the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the delicate balance between felicities and misfortunes in our lives. It encourages us to approach both with patience, gratitude, and trust in Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) wisdom. By recognizing the interconnectedness of these contrasting aspects, we can navigate through life's challenges with resilience and appreciation for the blessings bestowed upon us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand this profound lesson and the strength to face the trials and tribulations of life.