Hadith #8374

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) emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities at the right time. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (delays) "أخَّرَ", (opportunity) "الفُرْصَةَ", (at the right time) "وَقْتِها", and (lose it) "فَوْتِها".

The word (delays) "أخَّرَ" implies procrastination or postponing an action. It highlights the tendency of some individuals to delay or miss out on opportunities due to various reasons such as laziness, indecisiveness, or lack of awareness.

The term (opportunity) "الفُرْصَةَ" refers to a favorable moment or a chance to achieve something beneficial. It could be a chance to acquire knowledge, perform a good deed, help someone in need, or seek forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The phrase (at the right time) "وَقْتِها" emphasizes the importance of seizing the opportunity when it presents itself. It signifies the need to recognize and act upon the opportune moment without delay or hesitation.

Lastly, the word (lose it) "فَوْتِها" conveys the consequence of failing to seize the opportunity. It implies that if one delays or misses the chance, they will lose the benefits and rewards associated with it.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and acting promptly.

In Surah Al-Hadid (57:16), Allah says,

Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah and what has come down of the truth?

This verse reminds us that the time to turn to Allah and submit to His commands is now, without delay.

In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:106), Allah states,

O you who have believed, let there be witnesses between you when death approaches one of you at the time of bequest - two just men from among you or two others from outside if you are traveling through the land and the disaster of death should strike you.

This verse highlights the importance of appointing witnesses for bequests at the right time, emphasizing the need to act promptly before it is too late.

These Quranic verses, among others, emphasize the importance of recognizing and seizing opportunities at the right time. They remind us that delaying or missing out on opportunities can lead to regret and loss.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be proactive and vigilant in recognizing and acting upon opportunities. It encourages us to overcome procrastination and seize the chances that come our way, whether they are related to our spiritual growth, personal development, or acts of kindness towards others.

By reflecting on this Hadith and implementing its teachings in our lives, we can avoid the regret of missed opportunities and strive towards a more productive and fulfilling existence. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to recognize and seize the opportunities that come our way, and may He bless us with success in this life and the Hereafter.