Hadith #10405

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 self-accountability, foresight, and seizing opportunities for good deeds. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound Hadith in light of the Quran.

The first part of the Hadith states,

Take [good deeds] from yourself for your soul [in the Hereafter].

The word (take) "خُذْ" implies the need for individuals to actively engage in performing good deeds for their own spiritual growth and salvation. It highlights the personal responsibility each Muslim has in cultivating their own faith and righteousness. This concept is beautifully echoed in the Quran in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 18:

Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan - it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.

The second part of the Hadith advises us to

gather provisions today for your tomorrow.

This phrase urges Muslims to prepare for the future, both in this world and the Hereafter. Just as we gather provisions for our physical needs, we should also strive to accumulate good deeds and virtuous actions that will benefit us in the eternal life to come. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

The third part of the Hadith encourages us to

benefit from the slumber (or respite) of time.

This phrase reminds us to make the most of the opportunities that present themselves in our lives. Time is a precious resource, and we should not waste it in idleness or negligence. The Quran beautifully captures this sentiment in Surah Al-Asr, verses 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.

The final part of the Hadith urges us to

seize the opportunity [to do good while you can].

This emphasizes the importance of seizing the present moment to perform acts of righteousness and kindness. We must not delay or procrastinate in doing good, as we never know when our time in this world will come to an end. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 35:

O you who have believed, fear Allah and seek the means [of nearness] to Him and strive in His cause that you may succeed.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that it calls upon Muslims to be proactive in their spiritual journey. It emphasizes the importance of self-improvement, foresight, and seizing opportunities for good deeds. By taking responsibility for our own souls, preparing for the future, making the most of our time, and seizing opportunities for righteousness, we can strive towards a life of piety and success in both this world and the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives. May He guide us to constantly strive for self-improvement and to seize every opportunity to do good. Ameen.