لِكُلِّ كَبَد حِرْقَةٌ۔
For every heart there is anguish.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Hardships)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.
The Arabic phrase of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لِكُلِّ كَبَد حِرْقَةٌ۔" which translates to
For every heart there is anguish.
This concise statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries meaning and reflects the reality of the human experience.
To understand the depth of this statement, let us first examine the key words used. The word (kabad) "كَبَد" refers to the heart or the innermost core of a person. It represents the seat of emotions, desires, and spiritual connection. The word (hirqa) "حِرْقَةٌ" means anguish, distress, or burning sensation. It signifies the pain and suffering that one experiences in their heart.
This Hadith highlights the universal nature of human suffering. It acknowledges that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, will inevitably face moments of anguish and distress in their lives. It is a reminder that pain is an inherent part of the human condition, and no one is exempt from it.
The Quran provides us with several verses that support the message of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:155)
And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient
This verse emphasizes that trials and tribulations are an inevitable part of life, and they test the patience and resilience of individuals.
Furthermore, in Surah Al-Inshirah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (94:5-6)
Indeed, with hardship, there is relief. Indeed, with hardship, there is relief
These verses assure us that even in the midst of difficulties, there is always a glimmer of hope and relief. They remind us that the pain we experience is temporary and will eventually be replaced with ease.
Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that no one is immune to the trials and tribulations of life. It is a call to recognize and empathize with the suffering of others, as we are all united in our experiences of anguish. This Hadith encourages us to develop compassion and support for one another, as we navigate the challenges that life presents.
Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and understanding of human nature. His words serve as a guide for Muslims to navigate the complexities of life and find solace in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)
For every heart there is anguish
reminds us of the universal nature of human suffering. It encourages us to develop empathy and support for one another, as we all experience moments of distress in our lives. By acknowledging the inevitability of pain, we can find solace in the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and strive to navigate life's challenges with patience and resilience. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength to overcome our hardships and grant us ease in this life and the Hereafter.
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