إذا كَثُرَ النّاعي إلَيْكَ، قامَ النّاعي بِكَ۔
When the bringer of the news of death comes frequently to you, he will [soon also] announce your death to others.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Death)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.
The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,
When the bringer of the news of death comes frequently to you, he will [soon also] announce your death to others.
This Hadith highlights the importance of reflection and self-awareness in the face of mortality.
Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (na'ee) "نّاعي" refers to the bringer or announcer of news, specifically related to death. The word (kathura) "كَثُرَ" means to increase or become frequent. And the word (qaama) "قَامَ" means to stand or rise.
To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 185: (3:185)
Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection.
This verse reminds us that death is an inevitable reality that every soul will experience. It serves as a reminder that our time in this world is limited and we must prepare for the Hereafter.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 57, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (29:57)
Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.
This verse emphasizes the certainty of death and the ultimate return to Allah. It reinforces the idea that our time in this world is temporary and that we will be held accountable for our actions.
Now, let us delve into the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement. When the bringer of the news of death comes frequently to a person, it serves as a reminder of their own mortality. It prompts them to reflect upon their own lives and the legacy they will leave behind. If one is constantly confronted with news of death, it should motivate them to make the most of their time and strive for righteousness.
Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the importance of self-awareness and introspection. When we are aware of our own mortality, we are more likely to prioritize our actions and make choices that align with our values and beliefs. This awareness can lead to a greater sense of purpose and a desire to leave a positive impact on the world.
Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life. Just as the bringer of the news of death announces the passing of others, our own death is inevitable. It is a reminder that our time in this world is limited and that we should strive to make the most of it by engaging in acts of goodness and righteousness.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of reflection and self-awareness in the face of mortality. It urges us to constantly remind ourselves of the inevitability of death and to use this awareness as a motivation to live a purposeful and righteous life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to reflect upon our own mortality and to make the most of our time in this world.
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