Hadith #6513

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 hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the insignificance of human arrogance and pride. It begins with the rhetorical question,

What has the son of Adam to do with conceit?

This question serves as a reminder to Muslims that arrogance has no place in the life of a believer.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then proceeds to describe the lowly origins and ultimate fate of human beings. He states that the beginning of a person's existence is a (نُطْفَةٌ مَذِرَةٌ) "foul semen" and their end is a (جيفَةٌ قَذِرَةٌ) "rotting corpse". This vivid imagery serves to humble the reader and remind them of their mortality and the transient nature of worldly life.

To support this teaching, we can turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the insignificance of human beings and the need for humility. In Surah Al-Mu'minun, Allah says, (Quran 76:2)

Indeed, We created man from a sperm-drop mixture that We may try him; and We made him hearing and seeing

This verse highlights the humble origin of human beings and their purpose in being tested by Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qiyamah, Allah describes the Day of Judgment, saying, (Quran 75:3-4)

Does man think that We will not assemble his bones? Yes, We are Able to put together in perfect order the very tips of his fingers

This verse reminds us of the ultimate fate of our physical bodies, which will decay and be resurrected on the Day of Judgment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith serves as a profound reflection on the transient nature of worldly life and the importance of humility. It reminds Muslims that regardless of their social status, wealth, or achievements, they are ultimately made from humble origins and will return to the earth as lifeless bodies.

This teaching has important consequences for the behavior and mindset of Muslims. It encourages them to abandon arrogance and pride, and instead cultivate humility and gratitude towards Allah. It reminds them to focus on the eternal life to come, rather than being consumed by worldly pursuits and material possessions.

Moreover, this hadith also serves as a motivation for Muslims to engage in acts of worship and righteousness. It reminds them that their time in this world is limited and that they should strive to make the most of it by seeking the pleasure of Allah and performing good deeds. It encourages them to prioritize their spiritual growth and development over worldly pursuits.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder of the insignificance of human arrogance and the transient nature of worldly life. It calls upon Muslims to cultivate humility, gratitude, and a focus on the eternal life to come. By reflecting on the lowly origins and ultimate fate of human beings, believers are motivated to engage in acts of worship and righteousness, seeking the pleasure of Allah. May Allah guide us all to humility and righteousness.