Hadith #1140

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. 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,

One who proceeds on the path of his hopes, stumbles upon his death.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of balance and moderation in our aspirations and desires.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (jara) "جَرَى" means to proceed or move forward, indicating the action of an individual on their chosen path. (maydan) "مَيْدَانِ" refers to a field or arena, symbolizing the vastness and possibilities of life. (amalahu) "أَمَلَهُ" translates to hopes or aspirations, representing the goals and dreams that drive us.

To comprehend the connotation of this Hadith, we must turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 60:

And whatever thing you [people] have been given - it is [only for] the enjoyment of worldly life and its adornment. And what is with Allah is better and more lasting; so will you not use reason?

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and desires. It serves as a reminder that our hopes and aspirations in this life should not consume us to the extent that we lose sight of our ultimate purpose, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 64, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter - that is the [eternal] life, if only they knew.

This verse reminds us that the true life lies in the Hereafter, and the pursuits of this world are merely temporary distractions. It is crucial for Muslims to strike a balance between their worldly aspirations and their spiritual journey towards the eternal life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a cautionary reminder to Muslims. When we become too consumed by our hopes and desires, we may lose sight of the reality of death and the fleeting nature of this world. We may become so engrossed in our ambitions that we neglect our spiritual growth and fail to prepare for the Hereafter.

For instance, if a person becomes overly attached to material possessions, wealth, or fame, they may neglect their obligations towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and their fellow human beings. They may prioritize their worldly desires over acts of worship, charity, and kindness. In doing so, they stumble upon their death, not in the literal sense, but by losing sight of their true purpose and neglecting the path that leads to eternal success.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we should strive to strike a balance between our worldly aspirations and our spiritual journey. We should pursue our hopes and dreams while remaining mindful of our ultimate goal, which is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By doing so, we can avoid stumbling upon our death and instead find fulfillment in this life and the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to navigate the path of our hopes with moderation and guide us towards a life that is pleasing to Him. Ameen.