Hadith #9435

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the transient nature of our lives and the importance of moderation in our desires and earnings. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (anta) "أَنْتَ" refers to the individual addressed, which in this case is each and every one of us. (adadu) "عَدَدُ" means a fixed number or a limited quantity. (ayyam) "أَيَّام" translates to days, representing the passing of time. (fakullu) "فَكُلُّ" means every, indicating that each passing day takes something from us. (yamdi) "يَمْضِي" signifies the act of passing or moving forward. (bibadika) "بِبَعْضِكَ" refers to a part of oneself being taken away by each passing day. (fakhhidh) "فَخَفِّضْ" means to reduce or lower, implying the need to control our desires. (fi attalab) "فِي الطَّلَبِ" refers to our aspirations and ambitions. Lastly, (wa ajmil) "وَأَجْمِلْ" means to beautify or improve, specifically in relation to our earnings or livelihood.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Asr (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 verse highlights the fleeting nature of time and the importance of utilizing it wisely. It serves as a reminder that our days are limited and that we must make the most of them by engaging in righteous actions and seeking truth.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the need for moderation in our desires and actions. In Surah Al-A'raf (7:31), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against excessiveness, saying,

O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.

This verse teaches us to be moderate in our consumption and to avoid indulging in excessive desires. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith echoes this sentiment, reminding us to reduce our desires and find contentment in moderation.

Moreover, the Quran encourages us to be mindful of our earnings and to seek lawful means of sustenance. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises,

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

This verse highlights the importance of earning a livelihood through lawful means and refraining from exploiting others. Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith aligns with this Quranic principle, urging us to be moderate in our earnings and to strive for ethical and lawful means of sustenance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the transient nature of our lives and the importance of moderation in our desires and earnings. It echoes the Quranic teachings of utilizing our time wisely, being moderate in our actions, and seeking lawful means of sustenance. As Muslims, we should reflect upon this beautiful saying and strive to implement its teachings in our daily lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the deeper meanings of His words and the strength to act upon them.