Hadith #4555

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.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of being well prepared and ready, both in this world and for the Hereafter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be vigilant and proactive in our approach towards life, urging us to increase our provisions for the Hereafter.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The term (husn al-ta'ahub) "حُسْنِ التَأهُّبِ" refers to being well prepared and ready. It implies a state of readiness, both physically and spiritually. It encompasses being proactive, anticipating challenges, and taking the necessary steps to overcome them. This includes being prepared for the trials and tribulations of this world, as well as being prepared for the ultimate journey towards the Hereafter.

The phrase (al-isti'dad) "الاِسْتِعْدادِ" further emphasizes the need for preparedness. It denotes a state of being fully equipped and ready for any situation that may arise. It implies having the necessary tools, knowledge, and resources to face the challenges of life. This includes seeking knowledge, developing skills, and cultivating a strong relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also advises us to (al-istikthar min al-zad) "الاِستِكْثارِ مِنَ الزَّادِ", which means to increase in our provision. This provision refers to our spiritual and moral wealth, which we accumulate through good deeds, acts of worship, and seeking closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us to prioritize our eternal life over our temporary worldly affairs.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared and having Taqwa (God-consciousness) as our ultimate provision. It reminds us that our success lies in our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and our adherence to His commands.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hashr, verse 18, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse highlights the importance of self-reflection and accountability. It urges us to constantly evaluate our actions and intentions, ensuring that we are prepared for the consequences of our deeds in the Hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be proactive in their pursuit of knowledge, righteousness, and spiritual growth. It encourages us to constantly strive for self-improvement and to be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. By increasing our provisions for the Hereafter, we ensure that we are equipped with the necessary virtues and good deeds to attain success in the eternal life.

This Hadith also highlights the wisdom and knowledge possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His profound understanding of the Quran and his ability to provide practical guidance based on its teachings is evident in his advice. As Muslims, we should strive to emulate his example and seek knowledge from the Quran and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to be well prepared and ready in all aspects of life. It emphasizes the importance of increasing our provisions for the Hereafter and seeking closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By being proactive and spiritually equipped, we can navigate the challenges of this world and secure success in the eternal life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to follow the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and attain success in both worlds.