Hadith #3484

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,

مَنْ ساءَ تَدْبيرُهُ تَعَجَّلَ تَدميرُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

One whose planning is bad, his ruin is hastened.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of proper planning and the consequences of poor decision-making.

To better understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of some key words. The word (saa) "ساءَ" refers to something being bad, unfavorable, or harmful. It implies a negative outcome or consequence. The word (tadbiruhu) "تَدْبيرُهُ" means planning or management. It encompasses the process of organizing and arranging one's affairs in a thoughtful and strategic manner. Lastly, the word (ta'ajjala) "تَعَجَّلَ" means to hasten or rush.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of good planning and decision-making. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 8:60)

And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy and others besides them whom you do not know [but] whom Allah knows

This verse highlights the necessity of strategic planning in times of conflict, urging believers to prepare themselves adequately for any challenges they may face.

Another verse that sheds light on the significance of proper planning is found in Surah Al-Anfal, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 4:102)

And when you are among them and lead them in prayer, let a group of them stand [in prayer] with you and let them carry their arms. And when they have prostrated, let them be [in position] behind you and have the other group come forward which has not [yet] prayed and let them pray with you

This verse highlights the importance of strategic positioning and coordination during times of prayer, emphasizing the need for proper planning and organization even in religious practices.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims of the consequences of poor planning and decision-making. When one's planning is flawed or lacks foresight, their ruin is hastened. This can manifest in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, professional endeavors, and even spiritual growth.

For example, in personal relationships, if one fails to plan and communicate effectively, misunderstandings and conflicts may arise, leading to the deterioration of relationships. Similarly, in professional endeavors, poor planning can result in missed opportunities, financial losses, and a lack of progress. In terms of spiritual growth, if one does not plan and prioritize their religious obligations, they may find themselves neglecting their prayers, charity, and other acts of worship, ultimately hindering their spiritual development.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) enlightening saying serves as a motivation for Muslims to be mindful of their planning and decision-making processes. It encourages believers to approach their affairs with wisdom, foresight, and careful consideration. By doing so, they can avoid the hastening of their own ruin and instead pave the way for success, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of proper planning and decision-making. It highlights the consequences of poor planning and urges believers to approach their affairs with wisdom and foresight. By aligning our actions with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt, we can strive for success in this world and the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to plan wisely and seek His guidance in all our endeavors.