Hadith #7097

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May 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,

كَفى بِالمَرْءِ عَقْلاً أنْ يُجْمِلَ فِي مَطَالِبِهِ

which translates to

It is enough of intelligence for a person to be moderate in his pursuits.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of balance and moderation in one's aspirations and desires.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications. The word (intelligence) "عَقْلًا" refers to the faculty of reason and intellect bestowed upon humans by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through this intellect that we are able to make sound judgments and decisions. The word (to be moderate) "يُجْمِلَ" signifies the act of maintaining a balanced approach in one's pursuits, neither excessive nor deficient.

The Quran provides guidance on the importance of moderation in various aspects of life. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (2:143)

And thus We have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you

This verse emphasizes the importance of being a just and balanced community, which requires individuals to exercise moderation in their actions and interactions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (7:31)

Eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess

This verse highlights the prohibition of excessiveness in matters of consumption, urging Muslims to adopt a moderate approach in their eating and drinking habits.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to avoid extremes and find balance in all aspects of life. Whether it is in pursuing wealth, seeking knowledge, or fulfilling our responsibilities, moderation is the key to success and contentment.

For instance, in the pursuit of wealth, one should strive to earn a halal livelihood and provide for their family, but not at the expense of neglecting their spiritual obligations or engaging in unethical practices. Similarly, in seeking knowledge, one should strive for excellence and intellectual growth, but not to the extent of neglecting other important aspects of life, such as family, community, and spirituality.

By adopting a moderate approach, Muslims can avoid the pitfalls of extremism and find harmony in their lives. Excessive pursuit of worldly desires can lead to materialism, greed, and neglect of one's spiritual well-being. On the other hand, being too austere and neglecting the legitimate pleasures and blessings of this world can lead to a sense of deprivation and discontentment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the importance of self-control and discipline. It requires individuals to assess their desires and ambitions, and to prioritize them in a balanced manner. This moderation not only brings peace and contentment to the individual but also contributes to the well-being of society as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds Muslims of the significance of moderation in their pursuits. By being moderate, we can strike a balance between our worldly and spiritual aspirations, avoiding extremes and finding contentment in the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to lead a life of moderation and righteousness.