Hadith #3717

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) highlights the transient nature of this world and the ever-changing circumstances that we encounter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) describes the world as a place of (أحوال) "ahwal", which refers to varying circumstances or conditions. These circumstances are not fixed or constant but rather subject to change and fluctuation. The word (مُتَصَرِّفَةٌ) "mutasarrifah" is used to describe the situations in this world, indicating that they are in a state of constant flux and alteration. Additionally, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) mentions that the world is characterized by (أغْراضٌ) "aghraad", which means marked targets or objectives. This implies that there are specific goals and purposes that are sought after and pursued within the framework of this worldly life.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for further guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20) that the life of this world is nothing but a fleeting enjoyment, and the hereafter is the true abode of everlasting happiness and reward. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers). And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly pleasures and the illusion they create. Just as the rain brings forth lush green vegetation, which eventually withers and turns into dry straw, the attractions and pursuits of this world are transient and fleeting. The changing circumstances and situations mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) are a reflection of this reality.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:185), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us that every soul shall taste death and that the true reward and recompense will be given in the hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Every soul shall taste death. And you shall be paid your wages in full on the Day of Resurrection. And whoever is removed away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception.

This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly life and the ultimate reality of death. It serves as a reminder that the pursuit of worldly objectives and targets should not overshadow the pursuit of eternal success in the hereafter. The changing circumstances and marked targets mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasize the need for believers to remain steadfast and focused on their ultimate goal of attaining Paradise.

Reflecting on the profound wisdom of this Hadith, we can draw several important lessons. Firstly, it reminds us to be adaptable and resilient in the face of changing circumstances. Just as the world is characterized by varying conditions, we too must be prepared to navigate through the ups and downs of life with patience and steadfastness. Secondly, it serves as a reminder to prioritize our objectives and targets in alignment with the teachings of Islam. While worldly pursuits may be necessary and permissible, they should not distract us from our ultimate goal of seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and attaining success in the hereafter. Lastly, it highlights the impermanence of worldly pleasures and the need to invest in actions that will bring us everlasting reward and happiness in the hereafter.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder of the transient nature of this world and the ever-changing circumstances we encounter. It urges us to remain steadfast in the face of challenges, prioritize our objectives in alignment with the teachings of Islam, and invest in actions that will bring us eternal reward and happiness in the hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true nature of this world and guide us on the path of righteousness.