Hadith #3921

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لا تَرغَبْ فيما يَفْنى، وخُذْ مِنَ الفَناءِ لِلْبَقاءِ۔

This profound statement emphasizes the importance of not being attached to worldly desires that are temporary and fleeting. Instead, it encourages us to seek and acquire that which is everlasting and eternal.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (tarġab) "تَرْغَبْ" means to desire or long for something. It implies a strong attachment and inclination towards worldly possessions, pleasures, or achievements. On the other hand, (fanā) "فَناءِ" refers to that which perishes or fades away. It encompasses all the transient aspects of life, including material possessions, wealth, beauty, and worldly success. Lastly, (baqā) "بَقَاءِ" signifies that which remains or endures, indicating the eternal and everlasting aspects of life.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (57:20)

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like a rain whose vegetation pleases the tillers; then it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter, there is severe torment, and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.

This ayah highlights the temporary nature of worldly pursuits and the deceptive allure they hold. It reminds us that the true essence of life lies in the Hereafter, where everlasting rewards and the pleasure of Allah await the believers. Similarly, in Surah Al-Imran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (3:14)

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

This verse emphasizes that the love and attachment to worldly desires can distract us from the true purpose of life and the ultimate reward that lies with Allah. It reminds us that the enjoyment of worldly possessions is temporary, while the best return lies in the eternal life to come.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to prioritize the pursuit of the eternal over the temporary. We are encouraged to detach ourselves from the allure of worldly desires and to focus on acquiring that which will benefit us in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, teaches us that the pursuit of worldly desires can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction. Material possessions, wealth, and fame are all transient, and their pursuit can distract us from our true purpose in life. Instead, we should strive to acquire knowledge, good deeds, and a strong connection with Allah, as these are the means to attain eternal success.

By prioritizing the eternal over the temporary, we can find true contentment and fulfillment. We should seek knowledge that benefits us in this world and the Hereafter, engage in acts of worship that bring us closer to Allah, and cultivate relationships based on love, compassion, and righteousness. These are the investments that will yield everlasting rewards and ensure our success in the Hereafter.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to detach themselves from the transient nature of worldly desires and to focus on acquiring that which is eternal. By prioritizing the pursuit of knowledge, good deeds, and a strong connection with Allah, we can find true contentment and success in both this world and the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all on the path of righteousness and grant us the wisdom to understand the true value of eternal pursuits.