Hadith #4281

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 righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

رُبَّ رَباح (أرباح تَؤُلُ) يَؤُلُ إلى خُسْران۔

This Hadith can be translated as

Many a profit turns back into loss.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (rabah) "رَبَاح" in this Hadith refers to profit or gain, while (khusran) "خُسْرَان" means loss or detriment. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the reality that sometimes what appears to be a gain or profit can ultimately lead to loss or harm. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious and discerning in their pursuit of worldly gains, as they may not always bring about true benefit or success.

The Quran provides several verses that shed light on the concept mentioned in this Hadith. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us about the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the potential harm they can bring. Allah says, (Quran 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 reminds us that the allure of worldly possessions can distract us from the ultimate purpose of our existence, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah. While these material gains may bring temporary satisfaction, they do not guarantee true success or happiness in the Hereafter. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to prioritize their spiritual growth and seek lasting rewards rather than being solely focused on accumulating worldly gains.

Another verse that resonates with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Kahf. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 18:46)

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse emphasizes that material possessions and worldly achievements are merely temporary adornments. True success lies in performing righteous deeds that have lasting value in the sight of Allah. While wealth and children may bring temporary joy and satisfaction, they do not guarantee eternal happiness or salvation. Muslims are encouraged to invest their time and resources in actions that will bring them closer to Allah and secure their place in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the transient nature of worldly gains and to prioritize their spiritual growth and the pursuit of righteous deeds. It cautions us against becoming too attached to material possessions and encourages us to seek true success and fulfillment in the sight of Allah.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of making informed decisions and exercising wisdom in our pursuit of worldly gains. It reminds us to consider the long-term consequences and potential harm that may arise from our actions. Muslims should strive to align their pursuits with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny, including Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be cautious and discerning in their pursuit of worldly gains. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and the pursuit of righteous deeds, as true success lies in the pleasure of Allah and the rewards of the Hereafter. May Allah guide us all to make wise choices and grant us success in this life and the Hereafter.