Hadith #3815

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

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of relying and placing trust in the materialistic aspects of this world. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) draws our attention to the fact that many individuals have suffered greatly due to their attachment to worldly possessions and desires.

The word (wathiqa) "واثِق" in the Arabic text of the hadith refers to someone who places their trust and reliance on something. In this context, it refers to those who rely on the transitory and fleeting nature of this world, seeking fulfillment and contentment solely through material possessions and worldly achievements.

This hadith resonates with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly warns against the dangers of becoming too attached to the materialistic aspects of this world. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20:

(Quran 57:20)

Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. It is like a rain (Ghayth), thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers, evil-doers), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers, good-doers).

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the fleeting pleasure they bring. It warns us not to be deceived by the allure of this world, as it will ultimately fade away, leaving us empty-handed in the Hereafter.

Another verse that complements the message of this hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46:

(Quran 18:46)

Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world. But the good righteous deeds (that last) are better with your Lord for rewards and better in respect of hope.

This verse reminds us that while wealth and worldly possessions may bring temporary adornment to our lives, it is the righteous deeds and actions that we perform for the sake of Allah that truly hold value and bring lasting rewards.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a wake-up call for Muslims to reflect upon their priorities and the true purpose of their existence. It urges us to detach ourselves from the materialistic aspects of this world and instead focus on building a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving for righteous deeds.

When individuals become too engrossed in the pursuit of worldly possessions, they often neglect their spiritual growth and the development of their character. This can lead to a sense of emptiness, dissatisfaction, and even suffering. The pursuit of material wealth can become an endless cycle, as one's desires and ambitions are never fully satisfied.

Moreover, relying solely on the materialistic aspects of this world can blind individuals to the true purpose of their existence. It can lead to a neglect of their responsibilities towards others, as they prioritize their own desires and ambitions above the well-being of their fellow human beings.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strike a balance between their worldly pursuits and their spiritual growth. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to seek fulfillment through acts of worship, kindness, and compassion towards others.

By recognizing the temporary nature of this world and the potential harm that can arise from excessive attachment to it, Muslims are encouraged to seek true contentment and success in the Hereafter. This hadith serves as a powerful reminder to Muslims to reflect upon their priorities, detach themselves from the materialistic aspects of this world, and strive for a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the eternal rewards that await them in the Hereafter.