Hadith #9493

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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.

The hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Time has indeed come full circle to its [initial] state, as it was when the heavens and earth were first created.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the cyclical nature of time and its resemblance to the time of creation.

The word (istadara) "اِسْتَدَارَ" in the hadith refers to the concept of time coming full circle or returning to its original state. It signifies the repetition of events and the recurrence of patterns in the course of history. This cyclical nature of time is a reflection of the divine wisdom and purpose behind the creation of the universe.

The phrase (ka hay'atihi) "كَهَيْئَتِهِ" in the hadith means "as it was" or

similar to its original state.

It emphasizes the similarity between the present time and the time of the creation of the heavens and the earth. This similarity encompasses not only the physical aspects but also the spiritual and moral dimensions of human existence.

To understand the deeper meaning of this hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:104),

On the Day when We will fold the heaven like the folding of a [written] sheet for the records. As We began the first creation, We will repeat it. [That is] a promise binding upon Us. Indeed, We will do it.

This verse affirms the cyclical nature of time and the eventual return of the universe to its original state. Just as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) created the heavens and the earth in the beginning, He will recreate them in a similar manner. This repetition of creation is a testament to the absolute power and sovereignty of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Rum (30:30), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

So direct your face toward the religion, inclining to truth. [Adhere to] the fitrah of Allah upon which He has created [all] people. No change should there be in the creation of Allah. That is the correct religion, but most of the people do not know.

This verse emphasizes the constancy and unchanging nature of Allah's creation. The fitrah (natural disposition) upon which all people are created remains the same throughout time. Despite the changes and fluctuations in human societies, the fundamental principles of truth and righteousness remain constant.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand the impactful message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in his hadith. The cyclical nature of time serves as a reminder of the eternal nature of Allah's creation and the divine plan that governs it. It highlights the importance of recognizing the patterns and lessons of history and drawing guidance from them.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a motivation for self-reflection and self-improvement. Just as time repeats itself, so do the opportunities for growth and spiritual development. Muslims are reminded to seize these opportunities and strive for excellence in their faith and deeds.

Moreover, this hadith encourages Muslims to reflect on the consequences of their actions. Just as history repeats itself, so do the consequences of past actions. By studying the lessons of the past, Muslims can make informed decisions and avoid repeating the mistakes of previous generations.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the cyclical nature of time and its resemblance to the time of creation. It reminds Muslims of the eternal nature of Allah's creation and the divine plan that governs it. By reflecting on the lessons of history and striving for self-improvement, Muslims can navigate the cyclical nature of time and fulfill their purpose in this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us all on the straight path and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.