Hadith #2570

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الحَظُّ يَسْعَى إِلَى مَنْ لَا يَخْطُبُهُ

which translates to

Fortune rushes towards the one who does not seek it.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the concept of Divine providence and the idea that success and blessings come to those who do not actively pursue them.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us analyze the key words used. The word (fortune) "الحَظُّ" refers to the blessings, favors, and success that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bestows upon His creation. It encompasses both material and spiritual prosperity. The word (rushes) "يَسْعَى" implies that fortune actively seeks out individuals, indicating that it is not a passive occurrence but rather a deliberate act of Allah's divine will. Finally, the phrase (the one who does not seek it) "مَنْ لَا يَخْطُبُهُ" emphasizes that those who do not actively pursue worldly gains or obsess over materialistic desires are the ones who are favored by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) with His blessings.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the concept of Divine providence and the idea that success and blessings come from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone. Allah says in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77),

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse encourages Muslims to strive for the Hereafter while not neglecting their worldly responsibilities. It reminds us that our share of the world is predetermined by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and that we should not excessively pursue material gains. Similarly, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:80), Allah says,

And establish prayer and give zakah and obey the Messenger - that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our religious obligations and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rather than solely focusing on worldly gains.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder that true success and blessings are not achieved through relentless pursuit of worldly desires, but rather through sincere devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His commandments. It teaches us that when we prioritize our spiritual growth and seek closeness to Allah, He will bless us with His favors and guide us towards success in both this world and the Hereafter.

This Hadith also highlights the wisdom and knowledge possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His profound understanding of the workings of the universe and the divine decree is evident in his concise statement. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his deep insight and wisdom, which he acquired through his close relationship with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his unwavering devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that fortune and blessings come to those who do not obsessively seek them. By focusing on our spiritual growth, fulfilling our religious obligations, and seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can attain true success and prosperity in this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand this profound lesson and guide us on the path of righteousness.