Hadith #9923

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Remember the destroyer of pleasures and the spoiler of lustful desires and the caller towards separation.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The first word to focus on is (hādimah) "هادِمَ", which means "destroyer" or "annihilator." It refers to something that eradicates or eliminates. In this context, it signifies the destruction of worldly pleasures and desires that may distract us from our spiritual journey. The Quran supports this concept in various verses. For example, in Surah Al-Imran (3:14), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.

This verse reminds us that while worldly pleasures may be alluring, they are temporary and should not distract us from our ultimate purpose.

The second word to explore is (munaghisah) "مُنَغِّصَ", which means "spoiler" or "corrupter." It refers to something that tarnishes or corrupts the purity of desires, particularly lustful desires. The Quran emphasizes the importance of controlling our desires and avoiding indulgence in unlawful acts. In Surah Al-Isra (17:32), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way.

This verse reminds us of the need to resist and spoil lustful desires that lead us astray from the path of righteousness.

The third word to reflect upon is (dāʿiyah) "داعِيَ", which means "caller" or "inviter." It refers to someone who calls others towards a particular path or ideology. In this context, it signifies the call towards separation from worldly distractions and attachments. The Quran provides guidance on the importance of detachment from worldly affairs. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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.

This verse reminds us that worldly pursuits are transient and that we should focus on the eternal life to come.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith urges us to remember and reflect upon the destruction of worldly pleasures, the spoiling of lustful desires, and the call towards separation from worldly distractions. By doing so, we can maintain a balanced and focused approach to life, prioritizing our spiritual growth and striving for the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This remembrance serves as a reminder to avoid becoming attached to temporary pleasures and to constantly strive for self-improvement.

The consequences of heeding this advice are profound. By recognizing the fleeting nature of worldly desires and the potential harm they can cause, we can protect ourselves from falling into sinful behavior and maintain a higher level of consciousness. This awareness allows us to make better choices, seek fulfillment in acts of worship, and cultivate a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It also helps us to detach ourselves from the materialistic aspects of life and focus on the pursuit of eternal rewards.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of self-discipline, self-control, and self-awareness. It encourages us to constantly evaluate our actions and intentions, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Islam and the guidance of the Quran. By remembering the destroyer of pleasures, the spoiler of lustful desires, and the caller towards separation, we can navigate the challenges of this world with wisdom and righteousness, ultimately striving for success in the hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to remember and apply the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives, and may He guide us on the path of righteousness. Ameen.