Hadith #7094

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,

كَمْ مِنْ ذَليل أعَزَّهُ عَقْلُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

How many a lowly person has been made venerable by his intellect.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the immense power and value of intellect in elevating an individual's status and character.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (dhalil) "ذَليل" refers to someone who is lowly, humiliated, or lacking in honor. It signifies a person who is marginalized or disregarded in society. On the other hand, the word (a'azzahu) "أعَزَّهُ" means to make someone venerable, esteemed, or honored. It denotes the elevation of an individual's status and the restoration of their dignity.

To comprehend the significance of intellect in this Hadith, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the value of knowledge and intellect in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 58:11)

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse highlights that knowledge and intellect are means of elevation and honor in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Az-Zumar, Allah states, (Quran 39:9)

Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?'

This verse emphasizes the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who lack it. It highlights that intellect and knowledge have the power to transform a person's status and elevate them above others.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. The Hadith reminds us that intellect has the ability to uplift an individual from a state of humiliation and insignificance to a position of honor and respect. It is through the power of intellect that one can overcome societal barriers, prejudices, and discrimination.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was a shining example of this. His unparalleled knowledge and wisdom made him a revered figure among both his contemporaries and future generations. His intellect enabled him to navigate through complex situations, resolve disputes, and provide profound insights into various matters.

The consequences of this Hadith are far-reaching. It encourages Muslims to prioritize the acquisition of knowledge and the development of their intellect. By doing so, individuals can break free from the chains of ignorance and prejudice, and rise above societal limitations. Intellect empowers individuals to make informed decisions, contribute positively to society, and earn the respect and honor of others.

This Hadith also serves as a reminder that true honor and dignity are not solely based on external factors such as wealth, social status, or lineage. Rather, it is the intellect and knowledge that distinguish individuals and grant them a position of honor in the sight of Allah and society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the transformative power of intellect in elevating an individual's status and character. It highlights the importance of knowledge and wisdom in breaking free from societal constraints and attaining true honor and dignity. Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge, develop their intellect, and use it as a means to positively impact their lives and the lives of others. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to cultivate our intellect and use it for the betterment of ourselves and humanity.