Hadith #8342

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes three important aspects for Muslims to consider: taking advantage of the time given to us, safeguarding the boundaries of Islam, and being prepared for the sudden arrival of death.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of each part of this profound Hadith.

Firstly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to

take the respite of the days.

The word (mahl) "مَهَلَ" in Arabic refers to the time or opportunity that is granted to us. It reminds us to make the most of the time we have been given in this world. This concept is also echoed in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3):

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 reminds us that time is a valuable resource, and we must utilize it wisely by engaging in good deeds and seeking knowledge.

Secondly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to

protect the boundaries of Islam.

The word (qawasiya) "قَوَاصِيَ" in Arabic refers to the boundaries or limits of Islam. This implies that as Muslims, we have a responsibility to safeguard the principles and teachings of Islam from distortion, misinterpretation, and external influences. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands us in the Quran in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:48):

And We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So judge between them by what Allah has revealed and do not follow their inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth.

This verse emphasizes the importance of adhering to the true teachings of Islam and not deviating from its core principles.

Lastly, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to

anticipate the sudden attack of death.

The word (hujoom) "هُجُومَ" in Arabic refers to a sudden and unexpected attack. Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. This notion is also mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:57):

Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.

This verse serves as a reminder that death is an undeniable reality that can strike at any moment, and we must be prepared for it by leading a righteous life and constantly seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can understand that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging Muslims to make the most of their time in this world, protect the true teachings of Islam, and be prepared for the inevitable arrival of death. By utilizing our time wisely, adhering to the principles of Islam, and constantly reminding ourselves of the transient nature of life, we can strive to lead a purposeful and meaningful existence.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives and may He guide us on the straight path.