Hadith #1470

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to take the initiative in performing good deeds, to reject false hopes, and to constantly remind themselves of the reality of death. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying in light of the Quran.

First, let us examine the important words in the Hadith. The word (badiru) "بادِرُوا" means to take the initiative or to hasten. It signifies the importance of not delaying or procrastinating in performing righteous actions. The word (akdhibu) "أكْذِبُوا" means to belie or reject. In this context, it refers to rejecting false hopes or illusions that may distract us from the path of righteousness. Lastly, the word (lahizu) "لاحِظُوا" means to recall or remember. It emphasizes the need to constantly remind ourselves of the reality of death, as a means to motivate us towards righteous actions.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3),

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse highlights the importance of taking the initiative to perform good deeds and reminds us that time is a valuable resource that should not be wasted.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.

This verse encourages us to strive for the eternal rewards of the Hereafter while not neglecting our responsibilities and duties in this world. It reminds us to reject false hopes and illusions that may distract us from our ultimate purpose.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us valuable lessons. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of taking the initiative to perform good deeds. It reminds us that time is fleeting and that we should not delay in striving for righteousness. Just as Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his knowledge and proactive approach to serving Islam, we too should strive to emulate his example.

Secondly, the Hadith advises us to reject false hopes. In today's world, we are often bombarded with materialistic desires and illusions of success. However, true success lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and focusing on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. By rejecting false hopes, we can remain steadfast on the path of righteousness and avoid being deceived by temporary worldly pleasures.

Lastly, the Hadith reminds us to constantly remember the reality of death. Death is an inevitable and undeniable truth that awaits every soul. Reflecting on death serves as a powerful motivator to prioritize our actions and strive for righteousness. It reminds us that our time in this world is limited and that we should make the most of it by engaging in acts of worship, seeking forgiveness, and benefiting others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to take the initiative in performing good deeds, reject false hopes, and constantly remind themselves of the reality of death. By understanding and implementing the teachings of this Hadith, we can strive towards a life of purpose, righteousness, and eternal success. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to act upon these teachings and attain His pleasure.