Hadith #1498

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الْبِرُّ غَنِيمَةُ الْحَازِمِ" which translates to

Righteousness is the prize of the judicious.

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us analyze the key words in this Hadith. (al-birr) "الْبِرُّ" refers to righteousness, piety, and virtue. It encompasses all acts of goodness and obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). (ghaneematu) "غَنِيمَةُ" means prize, reward, or treasure. It signifies the immense value and significance of righteousness. Lastly, (al-hazim) "الْحَازِمِ" refers to the judicious or the wise, those who possess sound judgment and make wise decisions.

To understand the significance of righteousness as the prize of the judicious, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is righteousness. So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse emphasizes that righteousness is the most valuable provision for the journey of life. It is the key to success and the ultimate prize for those who possess understanding.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights that true nobility and superiority lie in righteousness. It is not based on lineage, wealth, or worldly status, but rather on the level of piety and virtue one possesses.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes that righteousness is not only a virtue to be admired, but it is also a reward and treasure in itself. The judicious individuals who possess wisdom and sound judgment recognize the true worth of righteousness and strive to attain it. They understand that righteousness brings numerous benefits and blessings in this world and the hereafter.

When the judicious prioritize righteousness, they make decisions and choices that align with the teachings of Islam. They are not swayed by temporary desires or worldly gains. Instead, they focus on pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seeking His pleasure. This mindset leads to a life of purpose, contentment, and tranquility.

The consequences of prioritizing righteousness are profound. It leads to a virtuous cycle where one's actions are guided by piety, and in turn, those actions increase one's righteousness. This cycle of righteousness brings about a positive transformation in an individual's character, relationships, and overall well-being.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement, we are reminded of the importance of wisdom and sound judgment in our lives. By being judicious and making choices based on righteousness, we can attain the ultimate prize of closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and the blessings that come with it.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to prioritize righteousness in all aspects of our lives and bless us with the reward of the judicious. Ameen.