Hadith #40

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the qualities of a blessed individual. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The Hadith begins with the words "Tuba" which can be translated as "blessed" or "fortunate." This signifies that the person who possesses the qualities mentioned in this Hadith is indeed blessed in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The first quality mentioned is "thakara al-ma'ad," which means

kept in mind the next life.

This implies that the blessed person is constantly aware of the Hereafter and lives their life in accordance with the teachings of Islam, striving to attain success in the eternal life. This quality is beautifully emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Hashr, verse 9:

(Quran 59:9)

And those who, before them, had homes (in Al-Madinah) and had adopted the Faith, love those who emigrate to them, and have no jealousy in their breasts for that which they have been given (from the booty of Bani An-Nadir), and give them (emigrants) preference over themselves, even though they were in need of that. And whosoever is saved from his own covetousness, such are they who will be the successful.

This verse highlights the selflessness and concern for the Hereafter that the blessed person possesses. They prioritize the well-being of others and are not attached to worldly possessions.

The second quality mentioned is "amila lil-hisab," which means

acted so as to be able to render account.

This refers to the person who performs righteous deeds with the intention of being accountable to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) on the Day of Judgment. This quality is beautifully emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Isra, verse 80:

(Quran 17:80)

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support in our actions. The blessed person is conscious of their actions and strives to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of their life.

The third quality mentioned is "qani'a bil-kafaf," which means

remained content with what sufficed him.

This implies that the blessed person is satisfied with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided for them and does not engage in excessive materialism or greed. This quality is beautifully emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

(Quran 2:197)

The Hajj is (in) the well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by entering the state of ihram], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no disputing during Hajj. And whatever good you do - Allah knows it. And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the importance of being content with what Allah has provided and focusing on the spiritual aspect of worship. The blessed person understands that true satisfaction lies in the remembrance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and not in the accumulation of worldly possessions.

The final quality mentioned is "radiya 'an Allah," which means

remained pleased with Allah.

This signifies that the blessed person is content with the decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and submits to His will. This quality is beautifully emphasized in the Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 216:

(Quran 2:216)

Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. 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 Allah's wisdom surpasses our limited understanding. The blessed person trusts in Allah's plan and remains pleased with His decisions, even if they may not fully comprehend them.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the qualities of a blessed individual who is mindful of the Hereafter, performs righteous deeds, remains content with what suffices them, and is pleased with the decree of Allah. These qualities are beautifully supported by various Quranic verses, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter, being accountable for our actions, being content with what Allah has provided, and submitting to His will. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with these qualities and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.