Hadith #3592

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 above mentioned Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of this world and the need for detachment from its materialistic allurements in order to attain true salvation. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that this worldly life is a place of trials and tribulations, where no one can find true security and peace except by renouncing its temporary pleasures.

The word (daar) "دار" in the Hadith refers to this worldly abode, which is characterized by its impermanence and fleeting nature. It is a place of constant change and uncertainty, where nothing remains the same. The word (layslamu) "لايُسْلَمُ" means

does not remain safe

or

does not find security.

This implies that no one can find lasting peace and security in this world, as it is inherently unstable and filled with trials and tribulations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the only way to attain salvation and protection from the harms of this world is through (az-zuhd) "الزُّهدِ", which can be translated as renunciation or detachment. Zuhd refers to the act of abstaining from the excessive pursuit of worldly pleasures and possessions, and instead focusing on the spiritual and eternal aspects of life. It is a state of contentment with what Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has provided, without becoming attached to the materialistic aspects of this world.

This concept of zuhd is beautifully echoed in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us of the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and the need for detachment. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (57:20)

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like a rain (Ghayth), thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers, evil-doers), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers, good-doers), whereas the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and possessions, likening them to the growth of plants after rain, which eventually withers away. It serves as a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment can only be found in the Hereafter, and that attachment to worldly possessions and desires can lead one astray from the path of righteousness.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Taghabun, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (64:15)

Know that your wealth and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.

This verse highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and the fact that they are merely a test from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that true success lies in utilizing our wealth and resources for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seeking His pleasure, rather than becoming attached to them.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful saying serves as a reminder for all Muslims to prioritize their spiritual journey and seek salvation by detaching themselves from the transient pleasures of this world. It encourages us to focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter and to use our worldly possessions and resources in a manner that pleases Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By practicing zuhd and renouncing the excessive pursuit of worldly pleasures, we can attain true peace, contentment, and protection from the harms of this world.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for all Muslims to detach themselves from the temporary allurements of this world and instead focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. It emphasizes the need for zuhd, or renunciation, as a means of attaining true salvation and protection from the trials and tribulations of this worldly life. By aligning our priorities with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt, we can navigate this world with wisdom, contentment, and a steadfast commitment to the path of righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to practice zuhd and seek His pleasure in all aspects of our lives.