Hadith #7989

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The mainstay of life is good estimation and its basis is good management.

This profound statement highlights the importance of two key qualities: good estimation (تَقْدِير) and good management (تَدْبِير).

Let us first delve into the meaning of these words. (تَقْدِير) "Taqdeer" refers to the act of estimating or assessing a situation accurately. It involves understanding the potential outcomes and consequences of our actions. (تَدْبِير) "Tadbir", on the other hand, refers to the act of managing or organizing affairs in a skillful and effective manner. It entails making wise decisions and taking appropriate actions to achieve desired outcomes.

To understand the significance of these qualities, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of good estimation in several verses. In Surah Al-Hashr (59:18), Allah says,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse highlights the need for individuals to reflect on their actions and consider the consequences they may face in the future. It encourages believers to estimate the potential outcomes of their choices and make decisions that align with the teachings of Islam.

Similarly, the Quran emphasizes the importance of good management in various verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:30), Allah recounts the story of Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his role as a vicegerent on earth. Allah says,

And [mention, O Muhammad], when your Lord said to the angels, 'Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority.' They said, 'Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?' Allah said, 'Indeed, I know that which you do not know.'

This verse highlights the responsibility entrusted to Adam to manage the affairs of the earth wisely and justly. It emphasizes the importance of good management in maintaining harmony and balance in society.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He states that good estimation is the mainstay of life, meaning that it is the foundation upon which successful and fulfilling lives are built. When we have the ability to accurately assess situations and understand the potential outcomes of our actions, we are better equipped to make informed decisions and navigate through life's challenges.

Furthermore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that good management is the basis of good estimation. This implies that in order to estimate accurately, we must possess the skills and knowledge to effectively manage and organize our affairs. When we are able to make wise decisions and take appropriate actions, we can ensure that our estimations align with our desired outcomes.

The consequences of possessing these qualities are far-reaching. Good estimation and management enable us to make choices that are in line with our values and principles as Muslims. They allow us to plan for the future, set goals, and work towards achieving them. They also help us navigate through challenges and overcome obstacles with resilience and determination.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to cultivate the qualities of good estimation and good management in their lives. By accurately assessing situations and effectively managing their affairs, believers can make informed decisions, achieve their goals, and lead fulfilling lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and ability to estimate and manage our lives in the best possible manner.