Hadith #8344

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Opportunity is quick to pass on and slow to return.

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the fleeting nature of opportunities in our lives. To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications.

The word (furṣah) "فُرْصَةُ" in Arabic refers to a chance or an opportunity. It signifies a favorable moment that presents itself to us, allowing us to achieve something beneficial or make a positive change in our lives. However, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that these opportunities are (sari'atul fawt) "سَريعَةُ الفَوْتِ", meaning they quickly pass by. They are transient and do not linger for long.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that opportunities are (batī'atul 'awd) "بَطيئَةُ العَوْدِ", which means they are slow to return. Once an opportunity is missed or neglected, it may take a considerable amount of time for a similar chance to arise again. This highlights the importance of recognizing and seizing opportunities when they come our way.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. In Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 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

This ayah reminds us of the limited time we have in this world and the importance of utilizing it wisely.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 60:1)

O you who have believed, do not take My enemies and your enemies as allies, extending to them affection while they have disbelieved in what came to you of the truth, having driven out the Prophet and yourselves [only] because you believe in Allah, your Lord

This verse highlights the significance of recognizing and seizing the opportunity to differentiate between true allies and those who oppose the truth.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be vigilant and proactive in recognizing and utilizing the opportunities that come their way. It urges us to reflect on the consequences of neglecting or missing out on these chances. By being aware of the fleeting nature of opportunities, we are motivated to take immediate action and make the most of them.

For example, an opportunity to seek knowledge may present itself in the form of a class or a lecture. If we fail to seize this chance, it may take a long time for a similar opportunity to come our way. By recognizing the value of the opportunity and acting upon it, we can acquire knowledge that will benefit us in this life and the hereafter.

Similarly, an opportunity for forgiveness and reconciliation may arise in our relationships. If we let it slip away, it may be difficult to mend the broken bonds in the future. By seizing the opportunity to reconcile, we can foster harmony and strengthen our connections with others.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking Hadith reminds us of the transient nature of opportunities in our lives. It urges us to be vigilant, proactive, and decisive in recognizing and seizing these chances. By doing so, we can make positive changes, acquire knowledge, strengthen relationships, and ultimately strive towards success in this life and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize and utilize the opportunities that come our way.