Hadith #7096

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the 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 بِالعَقْلِ غِنىً۔" This can be translated as,

Intelligence is sufficient as wealth.

In this impactful saying , Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance and value of intellect and knowledge.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (aql) "عَقْلِ" refers to intelligence or intellect. It encompasses the ability to reason, understand, and make sound judgments. It is a divine gift bestowed upon human beings, enabling them to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood. The word (ghinah) "غِنىً" means wealth or sufficiency. It signifies having an abundance of resources, whether material or immaterial, that fulfills one's needs and desires.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of knowledge and intellect in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), Allah says,

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great wealth.

This verse highlights the value of wisdom, which is closely linked to intelligence. It is a treasure that enriches a person's life and enables them to make wise decisions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:14), Allah narrates the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and describes him as

endowed with knowledge and strength.

This verse exemplifies the significance of knowledge and intellect in the life of a prophet. It is through their deep understanding and wisdom that they guide their communities and bring about positive change.

Now, coming back to the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can comprehend its meaning. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes that intelligence is sufficient as wealth. This means that possessing intellect and knowledge is more valuable than material wealth. While wealth may provide temporary comfort and luxury, it is the intellect that enables a person to navigate through life's challenges and make informed decisions.

Intelligence is not limited to academic knowledge alone. It encompasses a holistic understanding of the world, oneself, and the divine. It enables individuals to seek truth, distinguish between right and wrong, and contribute positively to society. It empowers them to overcome ignorance, injustice, and oppression.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a reminder that true wealth lies in seeking knowledge and nurturing the intellect. It encourages Muslims to prioritize education, critical thinking, and continuous learning. By doing so, we can cultivate a society that values intellect, promotes justice, and strives for excellence in all aspects of life.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that intelligence is a valuable asset that surpasses material wealth. It reminds us to prioritize knowledge, wisdom, and critical thinking in our lives. By seeking knowledge and nurturing our intellect, we can enrich our lives, make informed decisions, and contribute positively to our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to acquire knowledge and use our intellect for the betterment of humanity.