Hadith #7278

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.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of working for the Hereafter and making provisions for the journey beyond this life. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining its key words and their significance.

The word (intelligent person) "عاقِلِ" refers to someone who possesses wisdom, understanding, and foresight. This Hadith highlights that it is the duty of such individuals to prioritize their actions and efforts towards the Hereafter. It is a reminder for Muslims to not be consumed by the temporary pleasures and distractions of this worldly life, but rather to focus on the eternal life to come.

The term (Hereafter) "مَعادِ" refers to the ultimate destination and purpose of our existence. It encompasses the Day of Judgment, Paradise, and Hellfire. This Hadith encourages Muslims to work diligently towards securing a place in Paradise and to strive for the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The phrase (try to increase his provisions) "يَسْتَكْثِرَ مِنَ الزَّادِ" signifies the importance of accumulating good deeds, knowledge, and acts of worship in preparation for the Hereafter. Just as a traveler prepares provisions for a long journey, a believer should accumulate righteous deeds as provisions for the journey to the Hereafter. This includes acts of charity, prayer, fasting, seeking knowledge, and other virtuous actions.

The phrase (before he passes away) "قَبْلَ زَهُوقِ نَفْسِهِ" emphasizes the urgency and time sensitivity of this matter. Death is inevitable and can come upon us at any moment. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize our actions and make the most of our time in this world. We should not delay in seeking forgiveness, performing good deeds, and rectifying our actions.

Lastly, the phrase (lowered into his grave) "حُلُولِ رَمْسِهِ" reminds us of the reality of death and the grave. It serves as a reminder that this worldly life is temporary and that our final abode will be the grave. This Hadith urges Muslims to reflect upon the transitory nature of this life and to prepare for the eternal life that awaits us.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse reinforces the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter and accumulating provisions of piety. It reminds us that the true wealth and success lies in righteousness and God-consciousness. The intelligent person is the one who understands the transient nature of this world and invests in the eternal rewards of the Hereafter.

Another verse that resonates with the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 reminds us that worldly possessions and material wealth are temporary and fleeting. The true value lies in the enduring good deeds that we accumulate in this life. It is these deeds that will benefit us in the Hereafter and grant us eternal rewards.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize the Hereafter and to strive for provisions that will benefit them in the eternal life to come. It urges us to be intelligent and wise in our actions, making the most of our time in this world. By focusing on accumulating provisions of piety and good deeds, we can ensure a successful journey to the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and ability to act upon this advice.