Hadith #7729

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, and his noble companions.

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

فِي العَمَلِ لِدارِ البَقاءِ إدْراكُ الفَلاحِ۔

This can be translated as,

In working for the permanent abode there is attainment of prosperity.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran.

The word (amal) "عَمَلِ" refers to actions or deeds. It encompasses all the efforts and endeavors that a person engages in during their lifetime. It includes both physical acts and spiritual acts, such as prayer, charity, and acts of kindness. This highlights the importance of actively engaging in righteous actions in order to attain prosperity.

The phrase (dar al-baqaa) "دارِ البَقاءِ" refers to the permanent abode, which is the Hereafter. It represents the eternal life that awaits every individual after death. This phrase emphasizes the transient nature of this worldly life and reminds us that our ultimate goal should be to prepare for the everlasting life in the Hereafter.

The word (idrak) "إدْراكُ" means attainment or realization. It signifies the achievement or acquisition of something. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to the realization of prosperity or success. It implies that by actively engaging in righteous actions for the sake of the Hereafter, one can achieve true prosperity and success in both worlds.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 201:

And there are some among them who say, 'Our Lord, grant us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good and save us from the punishment of the Fire.'

This verse highlights the importance of seeking goodness and prosperity in both this world and the Hereafter. It emphasizes the need to strive for success in worldly matters while keeping in mind the ultimate goal of attaining success in the Hereafter. This aligns perfectly with the message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in his Hadith.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46:

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 merely temporary adornments of this life. They hold no real value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Instead, what truly matters are the enduring good deeds that we accumulate through our actions. These good deeds are the key to attaining prosperity and success in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), being the epitome of knowledge and wisdom, emphasized the importance of focusing on actions that lead to eternal success. By prioritizing the Hereafter and actively engaging in righteous deeds, we not only secure prosperity in the everlasting life but also experience the blessings and tranquility in this world.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for all Muslims to constantly strive for righteousness and to prioritize actions that will lead to success in the Hereafter. It encourages us to reflect upon our intentions and actions, ensuring that they are aligned with the teachings of Islam. By doing so, we can attain true prosperity and success, both in this world and in the eternal abode.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to work for the permanent abode and attain prosperity. May He bless us with the guidance to prioritize righteous actions and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.