Hadith #9937

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Verily this death is a swift seeker - neither does the steadfast escape it nor does the fleer frustrate it.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inevitability and impartiality of death. Let us delve deeper into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (death) "مَوْتَ" in this Hadith refers to the cessation of life and the departure of the soul from the physical body. It is a universal reality that every human being will experience. The word (seeker) "لَطالِبٌ" emphasizes the active pursuit of death, as if it is relentlessly searching for its appointed time. This conveys the idea that death is not a passive event but rather an active force that seeks out every living being.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that death does not discriminate between the steadfast and the fleeing. The word (steadfast) "المُقيمُ" refers to those who face death with courage and acceptance, while the word (fleer) "مَنْ هَرَبَ" refers to those who try to escape or avoid death. The Hadith asserts that neither the steadfast nor the fleeing can escape or frustrate death. This highlights the universal nature of death, which does not spare anyone regardless of their status, wealth, or power.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the message of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-An'am (6:61),

And He is the subjugator over His servants, and He sends over you guardian-angels until, when death comes to one of you, Our messengers take him, and they do not fail [in their duties].

This verse affirms that death is a decree from Allah and that His messengers, the angels, are responsible for taking the souls of individuals at their appointed time.

Another verse that complements the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:8), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, 'Indeed, the death from which you flee - indeed, it will meet you. Then you will be returned to the Knower of the unseen and the witnessed, and He will inform you about what you used to do.'

This verse reminds us that no matter how much we try to avoid or escape death, it will ultimately catch up to us. It emphasizes the importance of preparing for the inevitable meeting with our Creator and being held accountable for our actions.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize that death is an undeniable reality that awaits every soul. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of this worldly life and the importance of preparing for the eternal life to come. The inevitability of death should motivate us to lead a righteous and purposeful life, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving to leave a positive impact on society.

Furthermore, this Hadith teaches us that death does not discriminate between the steadfast and the fleeing. It is a reminder that no matter how much wealth, power, or influence one possesses, they cannot escape the grasp of death. This should humble us and remind us of the transient nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on the eternal aspects of life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the inevitability and impartiality of death. It serves as a reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the transient nature of this life and to prepare for the meeting with our Creator. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to live a righteous life, and may He bless us with a good ending.