In Wisdom (72), Imam Ali (peace be upon him) sheds light on the nature of time and its effects. This wisdom reflects human experiences and illustrates how time influences both the body and aspirations. Historically, this saying comes from a period in Imam Ali's life when he offered guidance to people, especially during times of social and political turmoil.
The central theme of this wisdom is that time ages the body while it also distances aspirations. It is a reality that as time passes, a person's age increases, and physical health may decline. Simultaneously, a person's hopes and dreams often change with time. Those who gain from the blessings of time also face grief and sorrow, while those who lose experience even greater pain.
A significant phrase in this wisdom is that "it brings death closer and distances aspirations." This profound truth reminds us that death is always near, while human desires may often be unattainable. It suggests that one must confront the realities of life and appreciate them.
The moral and spiritual lesson here is that one should value time and take every moment of life seriously. We must understand that time teaches us how to balance our desires and hopes. Practically, this wisdom teaches us to exhibit patience and gratitude in our lives, regardless of how challenging circumstances may be.
