Hadith #7139

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 purified Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

He who has no intellect has no religion.

This beautiful Hadith highlights the importance of intellect in understanding and practicing religion. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (aql) "عَقْلَ" in Arabic refers to intellect or reason. It is the faculty of the mind that allows us to think, understand, and make rational decisions. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that intellect is an essential component of religion. Without intellect, one cannot truly comprehend the teachings of Islam and fulfill its obligations.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of intellect and reasoning. In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 8:22)

Indeed, the worst of living creatures in the sight of Allah are the deaf and dumb who do not use reason.

This verse highlights the significance of using one's intellect to understand and follow the guidance of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:190)

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.

This verse encourages believers to reflect upon the signs of Allah's creation and use their intellect to recognize His existence and His wisdom.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder that religion is not merely a set of rituals and practices to be blindly followed. It requires intellectual engagement, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of its principles and teachings. Without intellect, one's religious practices may become empty and devoid of meaning.

For example, a person who mindlessly performs acts of worship without understanding their purpose and significance may not truly benefit from them. Similarly, blindly following religious leaders or traditions without questioning or seeking knowledge can lead to misunderstandings and deviations from the true teachings of Islam.

On the other hand, a person who possesses intellect and uses it to seek knowledge, understand the Quran, and apply its teachings in their life will have a stronger connection with their faith. They will be able to discern between right and wrong, make informed decisions, and navigate the complexities of life in accordance with the principles of Islam.

Intellect also plays a crucial role in recognizing and rejecting falsehood. It enables Muslims to distinguish between authentic religious teachings and misguided interpretations. By using their intellect, Muslims can safeguard their faith from being influenced by false ideologies or distorted beliefs.

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

He who has no intellect has no religion

emphasizes the indispensable role of intellect in understanding and practicing religion. It reminds Muslims that religion is not a blind adherence to rituals, but a comprehensive way of life that requires intellectual engagement, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of its principles. By using our intellect, we can strengthen our faith, make informed decisions, and uphold the true teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to use our intellect in the pursuit of knowledge and the practice of our religion.