Hadith #3638

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the nature of this worldly life and warns us about its inherent challenges and deceptions. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound statement in light of the Quran.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) begins by stating,

Indeed this world is an abode known for [its] tribulation and fraught with disloyalty.

Here, the Imam emphasizes that the world is a place where trials and tribulations are to be expected. It is a realm where difficulties and hardships are prevalent, and where loyalty is often lacking. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that remind us of the transitory nature of this worldly life and the challenges that come with it.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse emphasizes that trials and tribulations are a part of life, and it is through patience and perseverance that we can overcome them.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states,

Its states do not last and those who inhabit it do not remain safe.

This highlights the impermanence and instability of worldly affairs. The transient nature of this life is beautifully expressed in the Quran in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20),

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

The Imam's words serve as a reminder that no matter how secure and stable our worldly circumstances may seem, they are ultimately fleeting. This understanding aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) concludes by stating,

Life in it is dispraised and security in it is non-existent.

Here, the Imam highlights the inherent flaws and shortcomings of worldly life. Despite its allure and attractions, the Imam reminds us that life in this world is dispraised, meaning it is not praiseworthy or commendable. This echoes the Quranic teachings that caution against becoming too attached to worldly desires and pleasures.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:22),

No! You prefer the worldly life, while the Hereafter is better and more enduring.

This verse serves as a reminder that the true security and fulfillment lie in the Hereafter, not in the transient pleasures of this world.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides a profound insight into the nature of this worldly life. It serves as a reminder that trials and tribulations are inevitable, and that the transient nature of worldly affairs should not be a source of attachment or security. Instead, our focus should be on the eternal life to come, where true security and fulfillment lie. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to navigate the challenges of this world and to seek His pleasure in all that we do.