Hadith #10015

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,

لاغائِبَ أقْدَمُ مِنَ المَوْتِ۔

This can be translated as,

There is no absent one that approaches quicker than death.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inevitability and suddenness of death. It serves as a reminder to all Muslims of the transient nature of this world and the urgency to prepare for the hereafter.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. The word (lagha'ib) "لاغائِبَ" refers to someone who is absent or missing. It implies a state of unawareness or neglect. The word (aqdamu) "أقْدَمُ" means to approach or draw near. In this context, it signifies the swift and inevitable arrival of death.

The Quran provides several verses that support the message conveyed in this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:24),

O you who have believed, respond to Allah and to the Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life.

This verse emphasizes the importance of heeding the call of Allah and His Messenger, as it is through obedience to them that true life is attained. Death is the ultimate reality that awaits every individual, and it is only through submission to Allah's commands that we can truly live.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mulk (67:2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.

This verse reminds us that death is a creation of Allah and serves as a test for mankind. It is a reminder that our time in this world is limited, and we must strive to perform righteous deeds to attain success in the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the urgency and unpredictability of death. It serves as a wake-up call for Muslims to reflect upon their actions and priorities. Death can come upon anyone, regardless of their physical presence or absence. It does not discriminate between the young and the old, the rich and the poor. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to constantly be mindful of their deeds and strive to lead a righteous life.

This Hadith also reminds us of the importance of preparing for the inevitable meeting with our Creator. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and strive to improve ourselves in all aspects of life. It encourages us to be conscious of our actions and intentions, as death can arrive suddenly, leaving no opportunity for repentance or rectification.

Reflecting on this Hadith should motivate Muslims to make the most of their time in this world. It should inspire us to seek knowledge, perform good deeds, and strengthen our relationship with Allah. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his profound knowledge and wisdom, and his words serve as a guiding light for Muslims in navigating the challenges of life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the fleeting nature of this world and the certainty of death. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and strive for righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to live a life that is pleasing to Him, and may He grant us a peaceful and blessed meeting with Him in the hereafter.