Hadith #7640

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 Muhammad, his family, his companions, and the righteous successors.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ألا عامِلٌ لِنَفْسِهِ قَبْلَ يَوْمِ بُؤْسِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

Is no one ready to work for his soul before the day of his misery [and adversity]?!

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (aamilun) "عامِلٌ" in the Hadith refers to someone who actively engages in action or work. It implies taking proactive measures to improve oneself and prepare for the challenges and difficulties that lie ahead. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging Muslims to be proactive in their spiritual journey and to strive for self-improvement.

To understand the importance of this message, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Asr (Chapter 103), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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.

This ayah emphasizes the significance of taking action and working towards righteousness. It highlights that the path to salvation lies in belief, righteous deeds, and mutual encouragement towards truth and patience. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith echoes this message by urging Muslims to actively work on their souls before the day of adversity.

The phrase (before the day of his misery) "قَبْلَ يَوْمِ بُؤْسِهِ" in the Hadith refers to the inevitable challenges and hardships that every individual will face in their life. It serves as a reminder that adversity is a part of the human experience, and it is essential to prepare oneself spiritually and morally to navigate through these trials.

The Quran further emphasizes the importance of preparing for adversity in Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:214)

Or do you think that you will enter Paradise while such [trial] has not yet come to you as came to those who passed on before you? They were touched by poverty and hardship and were shaken until [even their] messenger and those who believed with him said, 'When is the help of Allah?' Unquestionably, the help of Allah is near.

This ayah highlights that the believers who came before us also faced trials and tribulations. They experienced poverty, hardship, and moments of despair. However, they remained steadfast in their faith and sought the help of Allah. This serves as a lesson for us to actively work on our souls and strengthen our relationship with Allah before the day of adversity arrives.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges Muslims to reflect on their actions and intentions. It encourages self-reflection and self-improvement as essential components of the spiritual journey. By actively working on ourselves, we can develop the strength and resilience needed to face the challenges that life presents.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be proactive in their spiritual journey. It emphasizes the importance of self-improvement and preparing for the inevitable adversities of life. By taking action and working on our souls, we can strengthen our faith, seek the help of Allah, and navigate through the challenges with resilience and steadfastness. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the strength to actively work for our souls.