Hadith #6894

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.

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

بِالعافِيَةِ تُوجَدُ لَذَّةُ الحَياةِ۔

This can be translated as,

Through well-being, life becomes pleasurable.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (well-being) "عافِيَةِ" refers to a state of being free from illness, affliction, and hardship. It encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It is a state of harmony and balance that brings about contentment and satisfaction in life.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of well-being in numerous verses of the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:195)

And do not throw yourselves into destruction.

This verse highlights the importance of taking care of one's well-being and avoiding actions that may harm oneself physically, mentally, or spiritually.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah states, (Quran 4:29)

And do not kill yourselves [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is to you ever Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the sanctity of life and the importance of preserving one's well-being. It reminds Muslims to refrain from any actions that may harm themselves or others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound connection between well-being and the enjoyment of life. When we are in a state of well-being, we are able to fully appreciate and enjoy the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah. We are able to engage in acts of worship, fulfill our responsibilities, and pursue our goals with enthusiasm and vigor.

On the other hand, when we are afflicted with illness, hardship, or distress, our ability to enjoy life is diminished. Our physical and mental well-being are compromised, and we may find it difficult to find pleasure in the simplest of things. This is why the preservation of well-being is of utmost importance in Islam.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude. When we are in a state of well-being, it is essential to express gratitude to Allah for His blessings. Allah says in Surah Ibrahim, (Quran 14:7)

And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'

Gratitude not only increases our blessings but also enhances our enjoyment of life.

Moreover, the pursuit of well-being should not be limited to ourselves but should extend to others as well. Islam teaches us to care for the well-being of our fellow human beings. Allah says in Surah Al-Ma'un, (Quran 107:4-7)

So woe to those who pray [but] who are heedless of their prayer - those who make show [of their deeds] and withhold [simple] assistance.

This verse emphasizes the importance of not only performing acts of worship but also actively contributing to the well-being of others.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Through well-being, life becomes pleasurable,

highlights the profound connection between well-being and the enjoyment of life. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It emphasizes the significance of gratitude and caring for the well-being of others. May Allah grant us all well-being and enable us to fully appreciate the pleasures of life.