Hadith #10106

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the Hereafter over worldly possessions. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (one who does not forward his wealth for his Hereafter)

مَنْ لَمْ يُقَدِّمْ مالَهُ لآخِرَتِهِ

and (leaves it behind while he is sinful) "خَلَّفَهُ وهُوَ مَاْثُومٌ".

The phrase

مَنْ لَمْ يُقَدِّمْ مالَهُ لآخِرَتِهِ

highlights the importance of investing one's wealth and resources in actions that will benefit them in the Hereafter. It encourages Muslims to prioritize acts of charity, helping those in need, and supporting righteous causes. By doing so, one not only secures their own reward in the Hereafter but also contributes to the betterment of society.

To support this exegesis, we find numerous Quranic verses that emphasize the significance of spending in the way of Allah. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261):

The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

This verse beautifully illustrates the concept of forwarding one's wealth for the Hereafter. Just as a seed multiplies and yields abundant crops, the act of spending in the way of Allah multiplies the reward manifold. It is a means of spiritual growth and blessings in this world and the Hereafter.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:274), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Those who spend their wealth [in Allah's way] by night and by day, secretly and publicly - they will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.

This verse highlights the importance of consistent and sincere acts of charity. Muslims are encouraged to spend their wealth in both private and public settings, without seeking recognition or praise from others. Such selfless acts are rewarded by Allah, and those who engage in them will be free from fear and grief on the Day of Judgment.

Now, let us reflect on the second part of the Hadith, which states (leaves it behind while he is sinful) "خَلَّفَهُ وهُوَ مَاْثُومٌ". This phrase serves as a warning against neglecting the Hereafter and focusing solely on accumulating worldly possessions. It reminds us that leaving behind wealth without utilizing it for righteous purposes is a sinful act.

In Surah Al-Takathur (102:1-2), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Competition in [worldly] increase diverts you until you visit the graveyards.

These verses highlight the distraction and preoccupation with worldly pursuits, which can lead to neglecting the Hereafter. Muslims are reminded that the accumulation of wealth and material possessions should not be their ultimate goal. Instead, they should prioritize actions that will benefit them in the eternal life to come.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize the Hereafter over worldly possessions. It encourages us to forward our wealth for righteous causes, such as acts of charity and supporting those in need. By doing so, we not only secure our own reward in the Hereafter but also contribute to the betterment of society. Conversely, neglecting the Hereafter and leaving behind wealth without utilizing it for righteous purposes is deemed sinful. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to prioritize the Hereafter in all aspects of our lives.