Hadith #1561

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

نَظَرُ البَصَرِ لايُجدي إذا عَمِيَتِ البَصيرَةُ۔

This can be translated as,

Eyesight is of no benefit if insight is blinded.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of having true insight and understanding, rather than merely relying on superficial observation.

To delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith, let us first examine the key words. "نَظَرُ البَصَرِ" refers to physical eyesight or the ability to see with one's eyes. "البَصيرَةُ" on the other hand, refers to insight, perception, or the ability to comprehend and understand.

The significance of this Hadith can be better understood by reflecting upon several Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of true insight and understanding. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:46),

Have they not traveled through the land, and have they hearts wherewith to understand and ears wherewith to hear? Verily, it is not the eyes that grow blind, but it is the hearts which are in the breasts that grow blind.

This verse highlights that the true blindness lies not in the physical eyes, but rather in the hearts that fail to comprehend and understand the signs of Allah. It is the lack of insight and understanding that renders one's eyesight useless. Similarly, in Surah Al-An'am (6:104), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Now, have they not traveled in the land to see the nature of the consequence for those before them? They were more numerous than these and mightier in power and in the traces (which they left behind them) in the earth. Yet all that they used to earn availed them not.

This verse highlights the importance of reflecting upon the lessons from the past and using one's insight to understand the consequences of their actions. Mere observation without understanding and reflection is of no benefit.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek true insight and understanding in all aspects of life. It urges us to go beyond the surface level and delve deeper into the meanings and implications of our actions and beliefs.

For example, in our daily lives, we may observe people performing acts of worship, such as prayer or fasting, but without understanding the true purpose and significance behind these acts, our eyesight remains superficial. True insight involves understanding the spiritual and moral dimensions of these acts, as well as the impact they have on our character and relationship with Allah.

Furthermore, this Hadith also has broader implications in the realm of knowledge and education. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom. He emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge not just for the sake of accumulation, but for the purpose of gaining true insight and understanding.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Eyesight is of no benefit if insight is blinded

serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek true insight and understanding in all aspects of life. It urges us to go beyond superficial observation and delve deeper into the meanings and implications of our actions and beliefs. By cultivating true insight, we can attain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our faith, and the world around us, ultimately leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek true insight and understanding.