Hadith #7174

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of utilizing one's time and energy wisely, focusing on actions that bring benefit in this world and the hereafter. The Imam states that a truly intelligent person is one who does not waste their breath in matters that do not bring any benefit and does not strive to acquire things that will not accompany them beyond this worldly life.

Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (intelligent) "عاقل" refers to a person who possesses wisdom, understanding, and the ability to make sound judgments. The term (does not waste his [time and] energy) "لايُضيعُ لَهُ نَفَساً" implies that the intelligent person does not squander their precious time and effort on futile pursuits. They recognize the value of time as a finite resource and utilize it in endeavors that bring them closer to Allah and benefit themselves and others.

The phrase (in that which does not benefit him) "فيما لايَنْفَعُهُ" highlights the importance of engaging in actions that have a positive impact on one's life. This includes acts of worship, seeking knowledge, engaging in charitable deeds, and maintaining good character. The intelligent person understands that engaging in activities that do not bring any benefit is a waste of time and detracts from their spiritual growth and development.

Furthermore, the phrase (does not strive to acquire that which will not accompany him) "لايَقْتَني ما لايَصْحَبُهُ" draws attention to the transient nature of worldly possessions. The intelligent person does not become overly attached to material possessions or engage in excessive accumulation of wealth. They recognize that these worldly possessions will not accompany them in the grave or in the hereafter. Instead, they focus on acquiring virtues, knowledge, and good deeds that will benefit them in the eternal life.

The teachings of the Quran support the wisdom conveyed in this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3),

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse emphasizes the importance of utilizing time wisely by engaging in righteous actions and seeking guidance from one another.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against the pursuit of worldly possessions, saying,

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse reminds us that while worldly possessions may provide temporary pleasure and adornment, it is the enduring good deeds that hold true value in the sight of Allah.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we are reminded of the importance of prioritizing our actions and investments. We should strive to engage in activities that bring us closer to Allah, benefit ourselves and others, and contribute to our spiritual growth. By doing so, we can make the most of our time in this world and prepare for the everlasting life in the hereafter.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to utilize our time and energy in a manner that brings benefit and rewards in this world and the hereafter. May He guide us to prioritize actions that align with His pleasure and grant us the ability to detach ourselves from the transient nature of worldly possessions. Ameen.