Hadith #3805

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 worldly possessions and the inherent uncertainty that comes with abundance. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that the little of this world does not last, and even its abundance does not guarantee protection from calamities.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (qaleel) "قَليلُ" means "little" or "few," while (dunya) "دُنيا" refers to the material world or worldly possessions. The word (la) "لا" negates the lasting nature of the little of this world. On the other hand, (katheeruha) "كَثيرُها" refers to the abundance or plenty of worldly possessions, while (la) "لا" negates the safety from calamities.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the need to focus on the eternal life hereafter. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadid (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.

This verse highlights the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits and the temporary joy they bring. Just like a rain that causes plants to grow, the material possessions of this world may bring temporary pleasure, but they eventually wither away and become worthless. The true value lies in seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and striving for the eternal life in the Hereafter.

Another verse that complements the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:45), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allah is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability.

This verse beautifully illustrates the temporary nature of worldly possessions by comparing them to rain that nourishes the earth. Just as the rainwater eventually evaporates or is absorbed by the soil, leaving behind dry remnants, the material wealth of this world also diminishes and fades away. It is a reminder that our focus should be on the everlasting rewards of the Hereafter rather than the temporary pleasures of this world.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to prioritize the pursuit of spiritual growth and the accumulation of good deeds over the accumulation of worldly possessions. It teaches us that no matter how much we possess in this world, it does not guarantee protection from the trials and tribulations that may befall us.

By recognizing the transient nature of worldly possessions, we are motivated to detach ourselves from materialism and focus on the true purpose of our existence - to worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His pleasure. This understanding leads to contentment, gratitude, and a greater sense of purpose in our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize the pursuit of the eternal life in the Hereafter over the temporary pleasures and possessions of this world. It urges us to reflect on the transient nature of worldly abundance and the need to focus on spiritual growth and the accumulation of good deeds. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to understand the true value of this world and guide us towards a life that is pleasing to Him.