The Prophet Jesus (PBUH) emphasizes the important difference between worldly desires and spiritual knowledge. He questions the integrity of someone who claims to possess true knowledge yet prioritizes their material life over their eternal afterlife. He emphasizes that genuine knowledge is rooted in understanding one's ultimate purpose and striving for what benefits the soul, rather than indulging in fleeting worldly pleasures that may lead to harm.

1. True knowledge lies in prioritizing the afterlife.

Jesus (PBUH) distinguishes between superficial knowledge and true wisdom. Someone who focuses solely on their material life and neglects their spiritual growth and preparation for the afterlife cannot be considered knowledgeable. True knowledge involves understanding the transient nature of this world and prioritizing eternal success.

2. The Danger of Materialism

This Hadith critiques those who are consumed by their love of worldly possessions, pleasures, and ambitions. It warns that an excessive focus on material life can have harmful consequences because it distracts one from what truly benefits the soul: faith, good deeds, and preparation for the Hereafter.

3. The Definition of Benefit and Harm

Jesus (PBUH) challenges us to reflect on what truly benefits us versus what harms us. Often, worldly things that seem desirable or pleasurable in the short term can harm our spiritual well-being. The true benefit lies in living a life that aligns with God's guidance and prepares us for eternal life.

4. The Hypocrisy of Misaligned Priorities

This saying warns against hypocrisy—pretending to be knowledgeable while living a life that contradicts the principles of wisdom and spirituality. A person who claims to understand the importance of the afterlife but acts in ways that prioritize fleeting worldly gains exposes their lack of true understanding.

Practical Implications:

1. Prioritize the afterlife over material life.

Reflect on your daily choices and ensure that they align with your ultimate goal of achieving success in the afterlife. Avoid being consumed by material desires, and focus on what nurtures your soul and strengthens your relationship with God.

2. Avoid Harmful Desires

Evaluate your actions and desires critically. Ask yourself whether they benefit your long-term spiritual well-being or are harmful distractions. Strive to make choices that lead to eternal benefit rather than temporary satisfaction.

3. Seek true knowledge.

 True knowledge is not just intellectual understanding, but wisdom that transforms your character and guides your priorities. Pursue knowledge that helps you grow spiritually and live a purposeful life.

4. Balance material and spiritual life.

While material life is necessary for survival, ensure it supports your spiritual goals rather than becoming the ultimate focus. Use worldly blessings as tools for doing good and attaining closeness to God.

5. Avoid hypocrisy.

Strive to align your actions with your beliefs. If you claim to value the afterlife, make sure your lifestyle reflects that priority. Cultivate sincerity, and don't be someone who outwardly portrays wisdom but inwardly prioritizes materialism.

Conclusion:

The Prophet Jesus's words serve as a reminder that the material world is transient and that we should prioritize the afterlife. True knowledge is not merely intellectual; it is the ability to discern what is truly beneficial for the soul from what is harmful. Those who prioritize their worldly life over their eternal life cannot be considered truly wise. This teaching challenges us to reflect on our priorities, seek genuine wisdom, and live a life that aligns with our ultimate purpose.