Hadith #551

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,

Mani ibta'a akhiratahu bidunyahu rabihuma.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter over worldly pursuits. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word "ibta'a" in the Hadith means to purchase or acquire. It implies making a conscious choice or investment in the Hereafter. The word "akhirah" refers to the eternal life that awaits us after death, while "dunya" refers to the transient and temporary world we live in. The word "rabihuma" signifies that the one who chooses the Hereafter over this world gains both of them, indicating that the rewards of the Hereafter are not at the expense of worldly blessings.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201),

But among them is he who says, 'Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns,

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 Hadith encourages us to reflect on our priorities and the choices we make in our lives. It reminds us that while the pursuit of worldly success and material possessions may be important, they should never overshadow our ultimate goal of attaining success in the Hereafter. We should strive to strike a balance between our worldly responsibilities and our spiritual growth, ensuring that our actions and intentions are aligned with the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep knowledge and understanding of the Quran. He exemplified this Hadith through his own life, as he prioritized the Hereafter over worldly gains. Despite having the opportunity to accumulate wealth and power, he chose a life of simplicity and selflessness, dedicating himself to the service of Allah and the betterment of society.

By following the teachings of this Hadith, we can find motivation to make choices that align with our ultimate purpose in life. It reminds us that the true success lies in the Hereafter, where our actions and intentions will be weighed and rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encourages us to invest our time, wealth, and efforts in acts of worship, charity, and righteous deeds, knowing that the rewards in the Hereafter are far greater and everlasting.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize the Hereafter over worldly pursuits. It urges us to make conscious choices that align with our ultimate goal of attaining success in the Hereafter. By doing so, we not only secure our eternal life but also find contentment and blessings in this temporary world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to prioritize the Hereafter and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives.