Hadith #591

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

الآخِرَةُ دَارُ مُسْتَقَرِّكُمْ، فَجَهَزُوا إلَيْهَا مَا يَبْقَى لَكُمْ

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of the Hereafter as the eternal abode for all believers. It urges Muslims to prepare for the Hereafter by investing in deeds and actions that will have lasting benefits.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us analyze its key words. "الآخِرَةُ" refers to the Hereafter, the life after death, where believers will be rewarded for their actions in this world. "دَارُ" signifies a dwelling or abode, indicating the permanent nature of the Hereafter. "مُسْتَقَرِّكُمْ" means the place of your permanent stay, highlighting the everlasting nature of the Hereafter. "فَجَهَزُوا" means to prepare or make ready, emphasizing the need for proactive efforts in preparing for the Hereafter. "مَا يَبْقَى لَكُمْ" refers to that which will remain for you, indicating the importance of investing in actions that will have lasting benefits in the Hereafter.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197:

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the importance of preparing for the Hereafter by cultivating Taqwa (God-consciousness) in our hearts. Taqwa is the best provision that will sustain us in the Hereafter.

In Surah Al-Kahf, verse 46, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This verse emphasizes that worldly possessions and relationships are temporary, while enduring good deeds are what truly matter in the sight of Allah. It reminds us to prioritize actions that will have lasting benefits in the Hereafter.

The exegesis of this Hadith teaches us that the Hereafter is our ultimate destination, where we will reside permanently. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to prioritize their actions and investments in this world, ensuring that they have lasting benefits in the Hereafter. This Hadith encourages us to focus on cultivating Taqwa, performing good deeds, and seeking Allah's pleasure, as these are the provisions that will sustain us in the eternal abode.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and wisdom, making him a reliable source for guidance. His profound understanding of the Quran and his close relationship with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) allowed him to provide invaluable insights into the teachings of Islam. This Hadith serves as a testament to his wisdom and his commitment to guiding the Muslim community towards the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of preparing for the Hereafter, which is the eternal abode of believers. It urges Muslims to invest in actions and deeds that will have lasting benefits in the Hereafter. By prioritizing Taqwa and performing enduring good deeds, we can ensure a successful and fulfilling eternal life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to prepare for the Hereafter and may He make us among the righteous in the eternal abode.