This World A Bridge to Akhirah
In a series of sessions, sociologist and religious researcher Emad Afroogh tries to introduce the thoughts of Imam Ali (AS). In the 14th session, he talks about the world and Akhirah. Here is a summary of his remarks:
Today, I am going to discuss sermon number 23 of Nahj al-Balagha. The sermon contains delicate points and notes that people can behave and act in a way to have a good situation both in this and the next world.
“The Muslim who is free from dishonesty expects one of the two good things: either call from Allah and in that case whatever is with Allah is the best for him, or the livelihood of Allah. He has already children and property while his faith and respect are with him. Certainly, wealth and children are the plantations of this world while virtuous deed is the plantation of the next world. Sometimes Allah joins all these in some groups.
Beware of Allah against what He has cautioned you and keep afraid of Him to the extent that no excuse be needed for it. Act without show or intention of being heard, for if a man acts for other than Allah, then Allah entrusts him to that one. We ask Allah (to grant us) the positions of the martyrs, company of the virtuous and friendship of the prophets.” (Nahj al-Balagha, Sermon 23)
Studying the book, I have understood that Imam Ali (AS) praises the world if it aimed at Akhirah and slams it if it is only pursued for its own sake. The Imam considers the world and good deeds that individuals can do here as a bridge to reach high positions in Akhirah.
