Hadith #3614

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

Verily those who are pleased with this world tomorrow are the ones who run away from it today.

Let us delve into the meanings and implications of this statement in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (those who are pleased) "السُّعَداءَ" and (those who run away) "الهارِبُونَ". The word "السُّعَداءَ" refers to individuals who find contentment and happiness in this worldly life. They are those who prioritize material possessions, wealth, and worldly success above all else. On the other hand, "الهارِبُونَ" refers to those who choose to distance themselves from the allure and temptations of this world. They recognize the transient nature of worldly pleasures and strive to detach themselves from its distractions.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the message conveyed in this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, (3:14)

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hadid, Allah reminds us, (57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon their priorities and the ultimate purpose of their existence. The pursuit of worldly pleasures and material possessions can be alluring, but it is essential to recognize that true happiness and contentment lie in seeking the pleasure of Allah and preparing for the hereafter.

Those who are pleased with this world and prioritize its temporary pleasures over the eternal rewards of the hereafter are like individuals who run away from their responsibilities and obligations. They are fleeing from the true purpose of their existence, which is to worship Allah and strive for righteousness. By indulging in worldly desires and neglecting their spiritual growth, they are distancing themselves from the path of guidance and righteousness.

Conversely, those who choose to distance themselves from the allure of this world are the ones who truly understand its fleeting nature. They recognize that the true source of happiness lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah and fulfilling their duties towards Him and His creation. They prioritize acts of worship, charity, and selflessness over materialistic pursuits. By running away from the distractions of this world, they are able to focus on their spiritual growth and prepare for the eternal life to come.

The consequences of being pleased with this world and running away from it are profound. Those who prioritize worldly pleasures may attain temporary satisfaction, but they will ultimately be deprived of the everlasting rewards of the hereafter. On the other hand, those who choose to detach themselves from the allure of this world will find true contentment and happiness in the eternal life to come.

As Muslims, we must reflect upon this Hadith and strive to align our priorities with the teachings of the Quran. We should seek contentment in the remembrance of Allah, the pursuit of knowledge, and the fulfillment of our duties towards Him and His creation. By doing so, we can find true happiness and prepare ourselves for the everlasting rewards of the hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to prioritize the eternal over the temporary, and may He guide us to the path of righteousness and contentment.