Hadith #8069

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لاغِرَّةَ كَالثِّقَةِ بِالأيّامِ۔" This can be translated as,

There is no heedlessness [and delusion] like reliance on the times.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quranic teachings.

The word "لاغِرَّةَ" in the Hadith refers to heedlessness or negligence. It implies being unaware or oblivious to the true purpose of life and the consequences of our actions. It is a state of being disconnected from the reality of our existence and the ultimate goal of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The word "كَالثِّقَةِ" means reliance or dependence. It signifies placing our trust and confidence in something or someone. In this context, it refers to relying on the passing moments and transient nature of time. It is a reminder that relying solely on the temporal world and its fleeting pleasures can lead to delusion and spiritual blindness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that there is no heedlessness or delusion greater than relying on the times. This means that when we become fixated on the materialistic aspects of life and prioritize worldly pursuits over our spiritual growth, we lose sight of our purpose and the eternal consequences of our actions.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that shed light on the importance of being mindful and cautious of falling into heedlessness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hashr (59:18),

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse reminds us to be conscious of our actions and their consequences. It urges us to reflect on our deeds and consider their impact not only in this world but also in the hereafter. By being mindful of our choices and striving to align them with the teachings of Islam, we can avoid falling into heedlessness and delusion.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly life and the illusionary nature of its pleasures. It serves as a reminder that true success lies in preparing for the eternal life to come and not becoming entrapped in the allurements of this transient world.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith urges us to reflect on the consequences of relying solely on the passing moments of time. It reminds us that true success lies in prioritizing our spiritual growth and striving for the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than being consumed by the materialistic pursuits of this world.

By recognizing the fleeting nature of time and the temporary nature of worldly pleasures, we can redirect our focus towards the eternal and strive for a meaningful and purposeful life. This entails seeking knowledge, engaging in acts of worship, and cultivating a deep connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through prayer, charity, and good deeds.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be mindful of falling into heedlessness and delusion by relying solely on the passing moments of time. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and strive for the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than being consumed by the temporary pleasures of this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to live a purposeful and fulfilling life, and protect us from the delusions of this world.