In Shaykh Hamza Yusuf's discourse, the essence of time and its impact on human beings is deeply explored.

Understanding the Concept of Time

The Shaykh begins by addressing the question of when a human being will finally be still. He responds by stating that stillness will only be achieved when a person realizes that the only time they truly have is the present moment. This understanding is rooted in Islamic teachings, where Allah mentions that the righteous have no fear of the future nor grief about the past, because they are fully present in the moment, mindful, and aware.

The Illusion of Future and the Reality of Now

Shaykh Hamza emphasizes that people often deceive themselves by making plans for the future, such as saying, "I'll come at the beginning of next month." In reality, no one knows whether they will live to see that future moment. While time itself will continue, the individual may not accompany it. This highlights the transient nature of human existence and the importance of focusing on the present moment rather than being preoccupied with the uncertainty of the future.

Time as Human Experience

Time, as Shaykh Hamza elaborates, is not merely a measurable entity but rather the sum of human experience. He draws on the Arabic language to explain that time is whatever a person is immersed in at any given moment. For example, if someone is experiencing joy, then their time is joy; if they are experiencing grief, then their time is grief. This perspective suggests that time is subjective and shaped by one's inner state and circumstances.

The Eternal Now and the Divine Nature of Time

The discourse delves into a profound theological concept where Shaykh Hamza states that Allah is time. He refers to the Scholastic tradition, which borrowed from Islamic teachings, to describe God as the "Eternal Now." This concept is derived from a saying in Islamic tradition where Allah warns not to curse time because He is time. Some scholars interpret this to mean that time in the outward sense is akin to the Divine in the inward sense. Thus, time is not just a passing moment but an eternal presence, a reflection of the Divine.

The Sword of Time

Shaykh Hamza references Imam Shafi'i, who learned from the Sufis that "time is a sword." This metaphor suggests that if one does not use time wisely, it will "cut them down." Time, in this sense, is not something to be killed or wasted, but a force that will eventually diminish human life. The Shaykh warns against the common notion of "killing time," as this reflects a lack of awareness and purpose. Instead, the wise person should approach each day by asking, "What is God going to do with me today?" rather than planning their own actions independently of the Divine will.

The Erosion of the Self by Time

In conclusion, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf highlights the relentless nature of time, comparing it to a file that gradually wears a person down. Time does not obliterate a person all at once but erodes them day by day until there is nothing left. This metaphor underscores the importance of being mindful of how one spends their time, as each moment lost is a part of oneself that is taken away.

Through this discourse, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf invites the listener to a deeper contemplation of time, urging them to be present, mindful, and aware of the Divine presence in every moment.