Hadith #7247

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

For the intelligent one, in every action there is self-discipline.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and self-control in every aspect of our lives. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

The word (intelligent one) "عاقِلِ" in this Hadith refers to a person who possesses wisdom, understanding, and the ability to make sound judgments. It is someone who is not easily swayed by their desires or emotions but rather exercises rationality and foresight in their actions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) praises the quality of intelligence in the Quran, saying, (Quran 49:13)

Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

The term (self-discipline) "اِرتياضٌ" in the Hadith refers to the act of restraining oneself, controlling one's desires, and adhering to the principles of righteousness. It implies the ability to resist temptations and make conscious choices that align with the teachings of Islam. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of self-discipline in the Quran, stating, (Quran 79:40)

And whoever restrains his soul from his desires, then indeed, Paradise will be his refuge.

When Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that in every action there is self-discipline for the intelligent one, he is highlighting the fact that intelligence should guide our actions and decisions. It is not enough to simply possess knowledge or intelligence; it is essential to apply that knowledge in a disciplined manner. This means that every action we undertake should be accompanied by self-control and a conscious effort to align our actions with the teachings of Islam.

For example, when faced with a situation that may provoke anger or impulsive behavior, the intelligent person exercises self-discipline by restraining their anger and responding with patience and forgiveness. This is in line with the Quranic teachings, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:133)

And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden as wide as the heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous.

Similarly, in matters of wealth and material possessions, the intelligent person exercises self-discipline by avoiding greed, extravagance, and unlawful means of acquiring wealth. They strive to be content with what Allah has provided and use their resources in a manner that benefits both themselves and others. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) reminds us in the Quran, (Quran 20:131)

And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

In every aspect of our lives, whether it be in worship, relationships, or personal conduct, the intelligent person exercises self-discipline by constantly seeking to align their actions with the teachings of Islam. They are mindful of their responsibilities and the consequences of their actions, striving to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all that they do.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of self-discipline for the intelligent person. It emphasizes the need to exercise self-control and make conscious choices that align with the teachings of Islam in every aspect of our lives. By doing so, we not only attain personal growth and righteousness, but we also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the qualities of self-discipline and intelligence in all our actions.