Hadith #16

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,

تَذِلُّ الْأُمُورُ لِلْمَقَادِيرِ حَتَّى يَكُونَ الْحَتْفُ فِي التَّدْبِيرِ

which can be translated as,

All matters are subject to destiny, so much so that sometimes death results from effort.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (tadhil) "تَذِلُّ" means to humble or submit. It implies that all matters in this world are ultimately under the control and decree of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The word (al-umur) "الْأُمُورُ" refers to all affairs or matters that occur in our lives. (lil-maqaadir) "لِلْمَقَادِيرِ" means subject to destiny or predestination. It highlights the fact that everything that happens to us is predetermined by Allah's divine decree.

To further understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qamar (54:49),

Indeed, all things We created with predestination.

This verse emphasizes that everything in the universe, including our lives and the events that unfold, are predetermined by Allah's divine plan. It reminds us that we are not in control of our destiny, but rather, we should humbly submit to the will of Allah.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Imran (3:145), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And no soul can ever die except by Allah's leave and at a term appointed.

This verse highlights the fact that even death, which is often seen as a result of our efforts or actions, is ultimately determined by Allah's decree. It serves as a reminder that our efforts and actions are merely means, while the ultimate outcome is in the hands of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the significance of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his deep knowledge and wisdom, reminds us that although we may strive and put in our best efforts, the ultimate outcome is not in our control. We may plan meticulously, work hard, and take all necessary steps, but it is Allah's decree that ultimately determines the result. This understanding should instill in us a sense of humility and reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, this Hadith teaches us that even in the face of adversity or failure, we should not despair or lose hope. We must remember that Allah's wisdom is beyond our comprehension, and what may seem like a setback or loss to us may actually be a part of a greater plan that we cannot fully comprehend. Our role is to put in our best efforts, while acknowledging that the outcome is solely in the hands of Allah.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of tawakkul (reliance on Allah). While we strive and work hard, we must also place our trust in Allah and have faith in His divine plan. This does not mean that we should become passive or negligent in our actions, but rather, it emphasizes the need to strike a balance between effort and reliance on Allah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that all matters in this world are subject to destiny, and even death can result from our efforts. It reminds us of the importance of humility, reliance on Allah, and acceptance of His divine decree. We should strive and put in our best efforts, while recognizing that the ultimate outcome is in the hands of Allah. May Allah grant us the wisdom to understand and implement the teachings of this Hadith in our lives.