Hadith #1017

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مِلاكُ الأُمورِ حُسنُ الخَواتِمِ

which translates to

The gauge of [successful] matters is [in] their good endings.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of evaluating the outcomes or conclusions of our actions and endeavors.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (milak) "مِلاكُ" refers to the gauge or measure by which something is assessed or evaluated. It signifies the means by which we can determine the success or failure of a matter. The word (umur) "أُمورِ" encompasses all aspects of life, including our actions, decisions, and endeavors. It encompasses both worldly matters and matters of the Hereafter.

The phrase (husn al-khawatim) "حُسنُ الخَواتِمِ" translates to "good endings" or "favorable outcomes." It emphasizes the importance of achieving positive results and favorable conclusions in our endeavors. It implies that the ultimate measure of success lies in the final outcome, rather than the initial stages or temporary circumstances.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (18:46),

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 the true value of our actions lies not in material possessions or temporary achievements, but in the lasting impact of our good deeds.

Similarly, in Surah Al-An'am (6:160), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgement] with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged.

This verse highlights the importance of striving for good deeds and righteous actions, as they will be rewarded manifold in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for us to focus on the ultimate outcome of our endeavors. It encourages us to strive for excellence in our actions, decisions, and interactions, with the intention of achieving positive and beneficial results. It reminds us that success is not merely measured by temporary gains or immediate gratification, but by the long-lasting impact and the ultimate consequences of our actions.

For example, let us consider a person who is faced with a difficult decision. They have two options: one that may bring immediate pleasure or benefit, but with negative long-term consequences, and another that may require sacrifice or patience, but with positive long-term outcomes. The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to choose the latter option, as it leads to a good ending and lasting success.

Furthermore, this Hadith encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and decisions. It reminds us to consider the impact of our choices on ourselves, our relationships, and our society. By evaluating the outcomes of our actions, we can make more informed decisions and strive for positive change.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a guiding principle for Muslims, reminding us to focus on the ultimate outcomes of our actions and endeavors. It encourages us to strive for excellence and righteousness, with the intention of achieving positive and beneficial results. By reflecting on the consequences of our choices, we can make informed decisions and work towards a better future. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to seek good endings in all our matters.