Hadith #8536

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 deep contemplation, observation, learning from past experiences, seeking advice, and preparing for the Hereafter. Let us delve into the exegesis of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

The first word in the Hadith is (fatafakkaro) "فَتَفَكَّرُوا", which means "so think" or "reflect." This word highlights the significance of engaging in deep thought and contemplation. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly encourages us to reflect upon His signs in the Quran. For example, in Surah Al-Imran (3:191), Allah says,

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.

The next word is (tabassaro) "تَبَصَّرُوا", which means "observe" or "perceive." This word urges us to pay attention to the world around us and to seek knowledge from our observations. In the Quran, Allah advises us to ponder over the creation of the heavens and the earth, as mentioned in Surah Al-Jathiya (45:13),

And [He has subjected] whatever He multiplied for you on the earth of varying colors. Indeed in that is a sign for a people who remember.

The third word is (i'tabiroo) "اعْتَبِرُوا", which means "take lesson" or "learn from." This word emphasizes the importance of reflecting upon past experiences and extracting valuable lessons from them. In the Quran, Allah recounts the stories of previous nations and their fates, urging us to learn from their mistakes. For instance, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:176), Allah says,

And if We had willed, We could have elevated him thereby, but he adhered [instead] to the earth and followed his own desire. So his example is like that of the dog: if you chase him, he pants, or if you leave him, he [still] pants. That is the example of the people who denied Our signs. So relate the stories that perhaps they will give thought.

The fourth word is (itta'izoo) "اتَّعِظُوا", which means "seek advice" or "take counsel." This word highlights the importance of seeking guidance and counsel from knowledgeable individuals. In the Quran, Allah advises us to consult with others in matters of importance. In Surah Al-Imran (3:159), Allah says,

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

The final phrase is (tazawwadu lil-akhirati tas'adu) "تَزَوَّدُوا لِلآخِرَةِ تَسْعَدُوا", which means

acquire provisions for the Hereafter, [for by this] you will attain felicity.

This phrase emphasizes the importance of preparing for the Hereafter by performing righteous deeds and seeking nearness to Allah. In the Quran, Allah repeatedly reminds us of the importance of striving for the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah says,

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

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a comprehensive guide for Muslims, urging us to engage in deep reflection, observe the signs of Allah, learn from past experiences, seek advice from knowledgeable individuals, and prepare for the Hereafter. By following these teachings, we can attain true felicity and success in both this world and the Hereafter.

Let us, as Muslims, heed the advice of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to implement these teachings in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to reflect, observe, learn, seek guidance, and prepare for the Hereafter, so that we may attain true felicity.