Hadith #11190

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 beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of two key actions for the God-fearing individuals: taking advantage of the respite and preparing provisions for the final journey. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this profound saying in light of the Quran.

The word (shimatu) "شيمَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the practice or conduct of the (muttaqeen) "أتْقياء", which translates to the God-fearing or the righteous individuals. The term (ightinam) "اِغْتِنامُ" means to take advantage of or make the most of something. And (al-muhlah) "الْمُهْلَةِ" refers to the respite or the period of time that is given to us in this world.

The first part of the Hadith highlights the importance of utilizing the time we have been granted in this world. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has given us a temporary period to live on this earth, and it is incumbent upon us to make the most of it. This concept is beautifully echoed in the Quran in Surah Al-Asr, where Allah says, (Quran 103:1-3)

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

The second part of the Hadith emphasizes the importance of preparing provisions for the final journey, which refers to the journey of the soul after death. Just as a traveler prepares provisions for a long and arduous journey, we must also prepare ourselves for the journey of the hereafter. This preparation involves engaging in acts of worship, seeking knowledge, and purifying our hearts. Allah reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 2:197)

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the importance of utilizing the time we have been given in this world to engage in acts of righteousness and to prepare ourselves for the journey of the hereafter. By taking advantage of the respite and preparing provisions, we can ensure that we make the most of our time on earth and secure a successful outcome in the hereafter.

The consequences of neglecting this advice are grave. If we waste our time in this world and fail to prepare for the hereafter, we will be at a loss. Allah warns us in the Quran, (Quran 90:4-18)

And We have certainly created man to struggle. Does he think that never will anyone overcome him? He says, 'I have spent wealth in abundance.' Does he think that no one has seen him? Have We not made for him two eyes? And a tongue and two lips? And have shown him the two ways? But he has not broken through the difficult pass. And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass? It is the freeing of a slave or feeding on a day of severe hunger. An orphan of near relationship. Or a needy person in misery. And then being among those who believed and advised one another to patience and advised one another to compassion. Those are the companions of the right.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of this world and the importance of utilizing our time wisely. We must strive to engage in acts of righteousness, seek knowledge, and purify our hearts. By doing so, we can make the most of the respite we have been given and prepare ourselves for the final journey. May Allah guide us all to follow the path of the God-fearing and grant us success in this world and the hereafter.