Hadith #10063

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of investing in the Hereafter rather than accumulating wealth for worldly purposes. Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding.

The word (malika) "مالِكَ" refers to one's wealth or possessions. It encompasses all material belongings, including money, property, and assets. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that our wealth is not truly ours in the absolute sense. Instead, it is a trust from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and should be used wisely to fulfill our responsibilities towards the Hereafter.

The phrase (ma qaddamtahu li-akhiratika) "ما قَدَّمْتَهُ لآخِرَتِكَ" means the wealth that one sends ahead for their Hereafter. It refers to the act of spending and investing in deeds that will bring rewards and blessings in the Hereafter. This includes acts of charity, supporting the needy, and engaging in righteous actions that please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By doing so, we are securing our eternal life and building a strong foundation for the Hereafter.

On the other hand, the phrase (ma akhkhartahu falil-warith) "ما أخَّرْتَهُ فَلِلْوارِثِ" refers to the wealth that one leaves behind upon their death. It pertains to the inheritance that is distributed among the heirs according to the Islamic laws of succession. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that this wealth does not truly belong to us, as it will be inherited by our heirs after our demise.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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 - 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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse highlights the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the fleeting nature of material wealth. It reminds us that the true value lies in investing in the Hereafter, where eternal rewards and blessings await. Similarly, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between worldly pursuits and investing in the Hereafter. It encourages us to utilize the blessings and resources bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to do good deeds and seek the eternal abode of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that our true wealth lies in the deeds we send ahead for the Hereafter. By prioritizing acts of worship, charity, and righteousness, we are securing our place in the eternal realm. On the other hand, the wealth we leave behind in this world will be inherited by our heirs, as determined by Islamic laws.

This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to focus on the ultimate purpose of life and to prioritize investing in the Hereafter. It encourages us to detach ourselves from the materialistic pursuits of this world and to strive for the everlasting rewards that await us in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to understand and act upon the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and may He bless us with success in both this world and the Hereafter.