Hadith #3723

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the transient nature of this worldly life and emphasizes the significance of preparing for the eternal life in the Hereafter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Indeed this world is only the abode of passage and the Hereafter is the abode of [permanent] residence. So take [provisions] from the abode of passage for the abode of residence and do not tear your veils in front of the one who knows your secrets.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). The word (dar) "دار" in Arabic refers to a dwelling or abode. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes this world as (daru mamarr) "دارُ مَمَرّ", which can be translated as the "abode of passage." This implies that the worldly life is temporary, transient, and fleeting. It is a place where we are merely passing through, like travelers on a journey. On the other hand, the Hereafter is described as (daru mustaqarr) "دارُ مُسْتَقَرّ", the "abode of residence," which signifies its permanence and eternal nature.

To further emphasize the impermanence of this world, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to take provisions from the abode of passage for the abode of residence. This means that we should utilize the resources and opportunities available in this worldly life to prepare ourselves for the eternal life in the Hereafter. Just as a traveler gathers provisions for a long journey, we should gather good deeds, knowledge, and righteousness to secure a place in the everlasting abode.

The Quran supports this concept of preparing for the Hereafter in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2: 110)

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters

This verse emphasizes the importance of balancing our worldly responsibilities and desires with the pursuit of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also warns us not to tear our veils in front of the one who knows our secrets. This metaphorical statement signifies the importance of guarding our privacy and not revealing our innermost thoughts, intentions, and weaknesses to those who may misuse or exploit this knowledge. It is a reminder to be cautious in choosing whom we confide in and to protect our dignity and honor.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of guarding our secrets and maintaining our privacy. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (49: 12)

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful

This verse reminds us to refrain from prying into the affairs of others and spreading rumors or gossip, as it is a violation of their privacy and can lead to harm and discord.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to recognize the temporary nature of this worldly life and to prioritize the preparation for the eternal life in the Hereafter. It urges us to make the most of our time in this abode of passage by accumulating good deeds and righteousness. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of guarding our privacy and not revealing our secrets to those who may misuse or exploit them. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to understand the true purpose of our existence and to strive for success in both this world and the Hereafter.