Hadith #8361

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 righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the fleeting nature of opportunities in life. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, compares opportunities to passing clouds. Just as clouds swiftly move across the sky, opportunities also come and go swiftly in our lives. Therefore, it is crucial for us as Muslims to seize these opportunities when they arise, especially when they present themselves as gates to goodness. Failing to do so will only lead to regrets and missed chances for growth and success.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and concepts mentioned. The word (furasa) "فُرَصَ" refers to opportunities or chances, while (marra) "مَرَّ" means to pass or go by. The Hadith emphasizes the transient nature of these opportunities, urging us to seize them promptly. The phrase (marra al-sahab) "مَرَّ السَّحابِ" likens the passing of opportunities to the movement of clouds, highlighting their fleeting nature.

The Hadith advises us to seize these opportunities when they arise (fi abwab al-khayr) "في أبْوابِ الخَيْرِ", which translates to

in the gates of good.

This phrase emphasizes the importance of recognizing and taking advantage of opportunities that lead to goodness, righteousness, and success. These opportunities may manifest in various forms, such as acts of charity, seeking knowledge, helping others, or engaging in acts of worship. By seizing these opportunities, we can enhance our spiritual growth and contribute positively to society.

The Hadith also warns us about the consequences of failing to seize these opportunities. It states that if we do not take advantage of them, they will (aadat nadaman) "عادَتْ نَدَماً", meaning they will turn into regrets. This highlights the regret and remorse we may experience when we realize that we have missed out on valuable chances for personal and spiritual development. Regret often arises from the realization that we could have done more or made better choices when the opportunity was present.

To further understand the importance of seizing opportunities, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 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 - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly pursuits and the importance of prioritizing opportunities for spiritual growth and righteousness.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse emphasizes the value of time and the need to utilize it wisely by engaging in righteous actions and seeking opportunities for personal and spiritual growth.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we are reminded of the importance of being proactive and seizing opportunities for goodness and righteousness. As Muslims, we should constantly be vigilant and attentive to the opportunities that come our way, recognizing them as gateways to spiritual growth and success. By doing so, we can avoid the regret that arises from missed chances and strive towards a life of purpose and fulfillment. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to recognize and seize these opportunities, and may He bless us with success in this world and the Hereafter.