Hadith #10014

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,

لاقادِمَ أقْرَبُ مِنَ الْمَوْتِ۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as,

There is none whose arrival is nearer than death.

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (laqadim) "لاقادِمَ" in Arabic refers to someone or something that is approaching or coming closer. It signifies the inevitability and certainty of an event. In this context, it refers to death, which is an undeniable reality that every human being will face. The word (aqrab) "أقْرَبُ" means "nearer" or "closer." It emphasizes the immediacy and proximity of death, highlighting the fact that it is always looming over us, regardless of our age, health, or status.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that remind us of the certainty and proximity of death. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:57),

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

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that death is an inevitable reality that no one can escape. It is a journey that every soul must undertake, regardless of their worldly achievements or possessions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:99-100), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Until, when death comes to one of them, he says, 'My Lord, send me back that I might do righteousness in that which I left behind.' No! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.

This verse highlights the regret that some individuals will experience when faced with the reality of death. It emphasizes the importance of utilizing our time in this world wisely and engaging in righteous deeds before it is too late.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims of the transient nature of this worldly life. It urges us to reflect on the brevity of our existence and the urgency to prepare for the eternal life that awaits us. It compels us to prioritize our actions and strive for righteousness, as death can arrive at any moment, without warning.

This Hadith also serves as a motivation for Muslims to constantly engage in self-reflection and self-improvement. It reminds us to evaluate our actions and ensure that we are living a life that is pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encourages us to make the most of our time in this world by engaging in acts of worship, seeking knowledge, and serving humanity.

Moreover, this Hadith has profound consequences on our outlook towards life and the choices we make. It reminds us to detach ourselves from the materialistic pursuits of this world and focus on the ultimate goal of attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with Allah and seek His forgiveness and mercy, as death can arrive at any moment, leaving no room for repentance or rectification.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims of the certainty and proximity of death. It urges us to reflect on the brevity of our existence and the urgency to prepare for the eternal life that awaits us. It motivates us to engage in self-reflection, self-improvement, and righteous actions. It has profound consequences on our outlook towards life and the choices we make. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to reflect upon this Hadith and live our lives in accordance with His guidance.