Hadith #6740

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 importance of having a sound understanding and knowledge. Let us delve into the deeper meaning of the words used in this Hadith.

The word (saḥḥat) "صَحَّتْ" refers to the state of being sound, healthy, and correct. It implies that one's cognizance or understanding is not only present but also accurate and reliable. It signifies a deep awareness and comprehension of the truth.

The term (maʿrifatuhu) "مَعْرِفَتُهُ" translates to "his cognizance" or "his knowledge." It refers to a profound understanding that goes beyond mere information. It encompasses a spiritual connection and recognition of the Divine truth.

The phrase (insarafat ʿani al-ʿalam al-fānī)

اِنْصَرَفَتْ عَنِ العالَمِ الفاني

can be translated as

his soul and his endeavor turns away from the evanescent world.

Here, (insarafat) "اِنْصَرَفَتْ" means to turn away or divert. (al-ʿalam al-fānī) "العالَمِ الفاني" refers to the transient and temporary world.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find verses that support and shed light on the connotation of this Hadith.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hadeed (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 emphasizes the fleeting nature of the worldly life and highlights the need to divert our attention from its temporary attractions. It aligns with the Hadith's message of turning away from the evanescent world.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not corruption in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.

This verse reminds us to seek the eternal abode of the Hereafter while not neglecting our responsibilities and blessings in this world. It encourages a balanced approach, where we prioritize the everlasting over the temporary.

Now, let us reflect on the meaning of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, teaches us that when our understanding and knowledge are sound, our focus naturally shifts away from the transient world. This shift occurs because a person with true knowledge recognizes the insignificance and temporary nature of worldly pursuits.

When one's cognizance is sound, they become aware of the true purpose of life and the importance of preparing for the Hereafter. Their soul and endeavors become directed towards seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fulfilling their duties as servants of the Almighty.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize seeking knowledge and understanding. It encourages us to develop a deep connection with the Divine truth and to let that knowledge guide our actions and aspirations. By doing so, we detach ourselves from the allure of the temporary world and focus on what truly matters in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of having a sound understanding and knowledge. It reminds us to divert our attention from the transient world and prioritize the pursuit of eternal rewards. By seeking true knowledge and aligning our actions with it, we can attain spiritual growth and strive for success in both this world and the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to attain sound cognizance and guide us on the path of knowledge and righteousness.