Hadith #8392

All praise is due to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and blessings upon Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

In the saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), the word (al-farāgh) "الفَراغِ" refers to idleness, emptiness, or a state of having no purposeful occupation. The word (as-sabwah) "الصَّبْوَةُ" denotes inclination, particularly towards youthful folly, vain desires, or tendencies that distract one from righteousness. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), renowned for his profound wisdom and deep understanding of human nature, highlights a universal truth: when a person is left without meaningful engagement or purpose, the soul becomes susceptible to whims and desires that can lead one away from the path of virtue.

This insight is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns in Surah Al-Mu’minun, verse 115: (23:115)

Did you then think that We created you uselessly and that to Us you would not be returned?

Here, the Qur’an reminds Muslims that life is not meant for aimless existence; rather, every moment is an opportunity for purposeful action and remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Similarly, in Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) declares: (103:1-3)

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

These verses emphasize the importance of utilizing time wisely in faith, good deeds, and mutual counsel.

Reflecting on Imam Ali’s (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) words, Muslims are reminded that the human soul is dynamic and always seeks engagement. When left idle, it does not remain neutral; rather, it gravitates towards distractions and desires that may be spiritually harmful. For example, a person with abundant free time but no constructive pursuit may find themselves drawn to activities that are frivolous or even sinful, such as gossip, excessive entertainment, or neglect of religious duties. This is not merely a matter of wasted time, but a spiritual risk, as the heart becomes vulnerable to the subtle whispers of temptation.

The motivation behind Imam Ali’s (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) guidance is to encourage Muslims to fill their lives with purposeful actions—acts of worship, seeking knowledge, serving others, and striving for self-improvement. When one is engaged in beneficial pursuits, the soul is fortified against the lure of vain desires. The consequence of ignoring this wisdom is not only the loss of valuable time but also the gradual erosion of moral and spiritual integrity. On the other hand, embracing this guidance leads to a life of fulfillment, productivity, and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), with his unparalleled knowledge and insight, teaches Muslims that safeguarding the heart and mind begins with how one spends their time. The Qur’an and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ) together call Muslims to a life of purpose, reminding them that every moment is a trust and an opportunity to draw nearer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Thus, the wise Muslim is one who transforms moments of potential idleness into opportunities for growth, worship, and service, thereby protecting themselves from the pitfalls of vain desires and ensuring a path of righteousness and contentment.