Hadith #1104

Bismillah, All praise is due to Allah, the Most High, and may His peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this wise utterance, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the deceptive nature of hope. The Arabic word used in this Hadith is (amal) "أمَلِ", which refers to the feeling of expectation or desire for something to happen in the future. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) asserts that nothing can be more untrue or deceptive than hope.

To understand the deeper meaning of this statement, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Yunus, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 10:65)

And let not their speech grieve you. Indeed, honor [due to power] belongs to Allah entirely. He is the Hearing, the Knowing

This verse reminds us that true power and control lie solely with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and no matter how hopeful we may be in our own plans and desires, it is ultimately Allah's will that prevails.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 34:39)

Say, 'Indeed, my Lord extends provision for whom He wills of His servants and restricts [it] for him. But whatever thing you spend [in His cause] - He will compensate it; and He is the best of providers'

This verse reminds us that our sustenance and provisions are in the hands of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and no matter how hopeful we may be in our efforts, it is ultimately Allah who determines our provisions and outcomes.

Reflecting on these Quranic verses, we can understand the wisdom behind Imam Ali's statement. Hope, in its essence, is a human emotion that stems from our desires and expectations. However, it is important to recognize that our hopes and desires are subject to the will of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Our plans and aspirations may not always align with Allah's divine decree, and it is in these moments that hope can become deceptive.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us to place our ultimate trust and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone. While it is natural to have hopes and dreams, we must remember that Allah's plans are far greater and more perfect than our own. We should strive to align our hopes and desires with the will of Allah, seeking His pleasure and guidance in all aspects of our lives.

By recognizing the deceptive nature of hope, we can guard ourselves against disappointment and despair when our expectations are not met. Instead, we should turn to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in times of uncertainty and rely on His infinite wisdom and mercy. This realization allows us to surrender ourselves to the divine will, finding solace and contentment in the knowledge that Allah's plans are always for our ultimate benefit, even if they may differ from our own hopes and desires.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's statement serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims. While hope is a natural human emotion, it is important to recognize its limitations and the potential for deception. By placing our ultimate trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can find true peace and contentment, knowing that His plans are far greater and more perfect than our own. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to align our hopes and desires with His divine will, and may He bless us with true success in this life and the Hereafter.