Hadith #3631

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he provides us with a deep insight into the nature of this worldly life. He describes it as the "abode of tribulations" and the "place of trials." These words highlight the transient and fleeting nature of the world, as well as the challenges and tests that it presents to individuals.

The first important word in this Hadith is (dunya) "دُنْيَا", which refers to the material world and the life of this world. It encompasses everything that is temporary and perishable, including wealth, power, and worldly desires. The word (mihan) "مِحَن" means tribulations or hardships, while (mahallu fitan) "مَحَلُّ فِتَن" refers to the place where trials and tests occur.

To further understand the meaning of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 64: (29:64)

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 emphasizes the temporary nature of the worldly life and highlights the importance of focusing on the eternal life of the Hereafter.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further explains that those who actively seek the pleasures and attractions of this world are ultimately evaded by it. They become entangled in its allurements and distractions, losing sight of their true purpose and the path to salvation. On the other hand, those who consciously distance themselves from the worldly temptations find that it advances towards them. This means that the trials and tribulations of the world will inevitably find them, even if they try to avoid them.

The Quranic verse in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, supports this understanding: (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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also highlights the different ways individuals perceive and interact with the world. He states that those who merely look at the world without true insight and understanding become blinded by its attractions. They become consumed by materialistic pursuits, losing sight of the spiritual and moral dimensions of life. However, those who look through the world, seeing it as a means to gain knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual growth, find enlightenment and guidance.

The Quranic verse in Surah Al-An'am, verse 32, beautifully illustrates this concept: (6:32)

And the worldly life is not but amusement and diversion; but the home of the Hereafter is best for those who fear Allah, so will you not reason?

This verse reminds us that the true purpose of life is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to prepare for the eternal life of the Hereafter.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to reflect upon the nature of this world and its transient nature. It urges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and the pursuit of knowledge, rather than being consumed by the materialistic pursuits of this world. By looking through the world and seeking enlightenment, we can navigate through its trials and tribulations, ultimately finding guidance and salvation. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this world and guide us on the path of righteousness.