Hadith #1653

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "لاذُخْرَ كالثَّوابِ۔" This can be translated as,

There is no provision [for the Hereafter] like reward [for good deeds].

In order to understand the meaning behind this statement, let us delve into the important words used in this Hadith.

The word (dhuhr) "ذُخْرَ" refers to provision or sustenance that one accumulates for the future. It encompasses all the resources, wealth, and assets that a person gathers during their lifetime. On the other hand, the word (thawab) "ثَّوابِ" signifies the reward or recompense that one receives for their righteous actions and deeds. It is the divine compensation granted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for the good that a person does in this world.

To shed light on the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the concept of reward and recompense for good deeds. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 25, Allah says,

And give good tidings to those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have gardens [in Paradise] beneath which rivers flow. Whenever they are provided with a provision of fruit therefrom, they will say, 'This is what we were provided with before.' And it is given to them in likeness.

This verse highlights the eternal reward and provision that awaits the believers in Paradise.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Insan, verse 22, Allah states,

They will be given to drink [pure] wine [which was] sealed. The last of it is musk. So for this let the competitors compete.

This verse emphasizes the abundance and excellence of the rewards that Allah has prepared for the righteous. It encourages believers to strive and compete in performing good deeds in order to attain these blessings.

Now, let us reflect on the significance of Imam Ali's statement. He is highlighting the incomparable nature of the reward for good deeds in comparison to worldly provisions. While worldly provisions may provide temporary comfort and sustenance, they are limited to this worldly life. On the other hand, the reward for good deeds is eternal and everlasting. It is a provision that will never diminish or perish.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, is reminding us of the true value and significance of our actions. He is urging us to prioritize the accumulation of good deeds, as they are the true provision for the Hereafter. Our worldly possessions and resources may come and go, but the reward for our righteous actions will remain with us forever.

This Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to strive in performing good deeds and acts of righteousness. It reminds us to prioritize our actions and intentions, seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) above all else. It encourages us to be mindful of our choices and actions, knowing that they have eternal consequences.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the reward for good deeds is unparalleled and incomparable to any worldly provision. It reminds us to prioritize our actions and intentions, seeking the eternal reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May we strive to accumulate provisions for the Hereafter through our righteous actions, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us success in this endeavor.