بِعَوارِضِ الآفاتِ تَتَكَدَّرُ النِّعَمُ۔
By the befalling of calamities blessings become roiled.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Blessing)
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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,
بِعَوارِضِ الآفاتِ تَتَكَدَّرُ النِّعَمُ۔
This Hadith can be translated as,
By the befalling of calamities, blessings become roiled.
Let us delve into the essence of this statement in light of the Quran.
The word (awarid) "عَوَارِضِ" in the Hadith refers to calamities or afflictions that befall individuals or communities. These calamities can take various forms, such as physical illnesses, financial difficulties, or social unrest. The word (al-aafat) "الآفاتِ" is the plural form of (al-aafiya) "العافية", which means blessings or well-being. The term (tatakaddar) "تَتَكَدَّرُ" can be translated as "become roiled" or "become disturbed."
In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us that trials and tribulations are a part of life. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:155)
And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.
This verse emphasizes that calamities are a test from Allah, and they are meant to purify and strengthen our faith.
Furthermore, the Quran teaches us that blessings can sometimes be hidden within trials and tribulations. In Surah Al-Insan, Allah says, (Quran 76:22)
Indeed, this is for you a reward, and your effort has been appreciated.
This verse reminds us that our patience and perseverance during difficult times will be rewarded by Allah. The blessings that were initially roiled by the calamities will eventually be revealed to us.
The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the interconnectedness of calamities and blessings. It teaches us that sometimes, it is through the experience of hardships that we come to appreciate and value the blessings bestowed upon us. For example, when we fall ill, we realize the importance of good health. When we face financial difficulties, we learn to be grateful for the provisions we have. Calamities serve as a reminder to Muslims to cherish the blessings they have been granted by Allah.
Moreover, the Hadith encourages us to maintain gratitude and contentment during times of adversity. It reminds us that even in the face of calamities, there are still blessings surrounding us. By focusing on these blessings and remaining steadfast in our faith, we can find solace and strength to overcome the challenges we encounter.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us a valuable lesson about the relationship between calamities and blessings. It reminds us that trials and tribulations are a part of life, and they serve as tests from Allah. Through these tests, our blessings may become roiled, but it is through patience, gratitude, and perseverance that we can uncover the hidden blessings within these trials. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate through the challenges of life and to always be grateful for the blessings He has bestowed upon us.
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