Hadith #3929

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he advises the Muslims not to grieve or feel distressed over the worldly possessions that they have lost or have been deprived of. The key words in this Hadith are (pine) "حَنينَ" and (servant girl) "الأمَةِ".

The word (pine) "حَنينَ" refers to a deep longing or yearning for something that has been lost or taken away. It implies a sense of sadness, grief, and attachment to worldly possessions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) compares this feeling to that of a servant girl, who may pine for her lost freedom or the comforts she once had. By using this analogy, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the insignificance of worldly possessions and the need to detach oneself from them.

This Hadith reminds us of the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the temporary nature of this world and the importance of focusing on the eternal life hereafter. Allah says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children...

This verse reminds us that the material possessions of this world are fleeting and transient.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Taghabun (64:15), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Your wealth and your children are but a trial, and Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse reminds us that our possessions and relationships in this world are merely a test from Allah, and our true reward lies in the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith is rooted in the understanding that attachment to worldly possessions can lead to discontentment, greed, and a loss of focus on the ultimate purpose of life. By urging Muslims not to pine over what they have lost, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is encouraging them to redirect their attention towards the spiritual realm and the pursuit of righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself embodied this detachment from worldly possessions. He was known for his ascetic lifestyle and his deep knowledge and understanding of the Quran. His focus was always on seeking the pleasure of Allah and serving the community. By following his example, Muslims can learn to prioritize their spiritual growth over materialistic pursuits.

The consequences of heeding Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice are manifold. Firstly, it allows individuals to find contentment and peace within themselves, regardless of their material circumstances. By recognizing the temporary nature of worldly possessions, one can free themselves from the constant pursuit of wealth and status, and instead focus on cultivating their relationship with Allah and their own personal growth.

Secondly, detaching oneself from worldly possessions enables Muslims to develop a sense of empathy and compassion towards those who are less fortunate. When we realize that material wealth does not define our worth or happiness, we become more inclined to help and support those in need. This fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood within the Muslim community.

Lastly, by prioritizing the eternal life hereafter, Muslims are motivated to engage in acts of worship and righteousness. When we understand that our true reward lies in the pleasure of Allah, we are inspired to perform good deeds, seek knowledge, and strive for excellence in all aspects of our lives.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to detach themselves from worldly possessions and focus on the pursuit of spiritual growth. By recognizing the temporary nature of this world and redirecting our attention towards the eternal life hereafter, we can find contentment, develop empathy, and strive for righteousness. May Allah guide us all to follow the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and grant us success in this world and the hereafter.