Hadith #4562

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) states,

That which you send forth today is what you shall come upon tomorrow, so make arrangements for your arrival and send forth [provisions] for your day.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of foresight, planning, and preparation for the future.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (qaddamta) "قَدَّمْتَ" means to send forth or to advance. It refers to the actions and efforts we undertake in the present moment. (taqdim) "تَقْدِمْ" means to make arrangements or preparations for something. It implies taking proactive steps to ensure a favorable outcome in the future. (ghadan) "غَداً" means tomorrow, symbolizing the future or the days to come. (imhad) "امْهَدْ" means to prepare or provide provisions for one's arrival. It signifies the need to equip oneself with the necessary resources and tools for the challenges that lie ahead.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of planning and preparation in various verses. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:18), Allah says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse echoes the message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith, urging believers to be mindful of their actions and to consider the consequences of their choices.

Another verse that aligns with the teachings of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), where Allah instructs the believers regarding the pilgrimage, saying,

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

Here, Allah emphasizes the importance of taking provisions for the journey, both in the literal and metaphorical sense. Just as physical provisions are necessary for a successful pilgrimage, spiritual provisions, such as piety and righteousness, are essential for a successful journey through life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be proactive and forward-thinking in their approach to life. It encourages us to reflect on our actions today and consider the impact they will have on our future. By sending forth good deeds, sincere intentions, and positive efforts, we can shape a better tomorrow for ourselves and those around us.

This Hadith also highlights the importance of preparation and foresight in various aspects of life. Whether it is in our personal relationships, education, career, or spiritual journey, planning and making arrangements for the future is crucial. Just as a traveler prepares for a journey by gathering the necessary provisions, we should equip ourselves with knowledge, skills, and virtues that will aid us in navigating the challenges that lie ahead.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to strive for excellence in all their endeavors. By recognizing that our present actions shape our future outcomes, we are encouraged to put forth our best efforts and make the most of every opportunity. It reminds us that success is not a result of mere chance or luck, but rather a consequence of deliberate actions and thoughtful planning.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to be proactive, forward-thinking, and prepared for the future. It urges us to reflect on our present actions and consider their impact on our future. By sending forth good deeds, making arrangements, and equipping ourselves with the necessary provisions, we can shape a better tomorrow for ourselves and those around us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and foresight to implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.