Prophetic Hadiths on Ambition and Hope
Numerous hadiths emphasize the themes of ambition and hope. Here are some notable examples:
- In a Qudsi Hadith, Allah (Exalted and Glorious) states: “I am as My servant thinks of Me, and I am with him when he remembers Me. If he remembers Me in himself, I remember him in Myself. If he remembers Me in a group, I remember him in a group better than they. If he comes closer to Me by a span, I come closer to him by an arm’s length. If he comes closer to Me by an arm’s length, I come closer to him by a fathom. If he approaches Me walking, I come to him running.” In another narration, it is mentioned without the phrase about the arm’s length.
This indicates that I am capable of doing what he thinks I will do. Therefore, it is essential for the repentant, the seeker of forgiveness, and the diligent worker to strive in fulfilling their obligations, confident that Allah will accept their deeds and forgive their sins. Allah has promised to accept sincere repentance and righteous deeds, and He does not go back on His promise. If one believes or thinks that Allah does not accept their actions or that they benefit him not, this is despair and a severance of hope from Allah’s mercy.
- When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was being pursued by the disbeliever Suraqa, Abu Bakr was fearful. The Prophet reassured him, saying, “Do not grieve, for Allah is with us.”
- Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) recounts: “I was with the Prophet (peace be upon him) in the cave when I raised my head and saw the feet of the people. I said to the Prophet, ‘O Messenger of Allah, if one of them lowers his gaze, he will see us.’ The Prophet replied, ‘Be silent, O Abu Bakr; we are two, and Allah is the third of us.'”
- Abu Musa Al-Ash’ari (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: “Whenever the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) sent one of his companions for a task, he would say: ‘Give glad tidings and do not create aversion, facilitate and do not make things difficult.’
The essence of giving glad tidings is to instill hope and optimism in people, emphasizing that Allah (Exalted) is vast in mercy and forgiveness, and that His rewards are immense. His mercy encompasses all things, and it is the duty of everyone who calls to Allah’s religion to carry this message.
Hadith on the Prophet’s Consideration for the Ambitions of Youth
The Prophet (peace be upon him), in his approach to nurturing his companions, understood how to inspire their spirits, elevate their hopes, and energize their ambitions. He recognized each companion’s unique strengths and tailored his encouragement to amplify their aspirations in their respective fields, thereby enhancing their dedication and commitment.
In a hadith narrated by Al-Tirmidhi, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The best reciter of the Book of Allah is Ubayy Ibn Ka’b, the most knowledgeable in matters of inheritance is Zayd Ibn Thabit, and the most learned about halal and haram is Muadh Ibn Jabal.”
Hadith Prohibiting Pessimism and Despair
Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: “There is no contagion, no superstition, and I love good omens.” Among the prevalent customs among people are superstitions and pessimism; such as interpreting the behavior of birds like crows and owls as omens, or being disheartened by certain names, days, animals, or people.
This kind of thinking undermines an individual’s faith, as it contradicts sincere reliance on Allah, who alone brings benefit or harm. In the phrase “I love good omens,” good omens stand in opposition to pessimism and despair. They are encouraged and praiseworthy, as they bring joy to the soul and foster a positive outlook and hope in Allah (Exalted).