Hadith #3002

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الحمق شقاء" which translates to "Foolishness is wretchedness." This concise statement carries profound wisdom and serves as a reminder for all Muslims.

The word (al-humq) "الحمق" refers to foolishness or stupidity. It denotes a lack of wisdom, understanding, and discernment. It is the opposite of intelligence and sound judgment. When a person acts foolishly, they make poor decisions and engage in actions that are detrimental to themselves and others.

The word (shaqaa) "شقاء" means wretchedness or misery. It signifies a state of extreme unhappiness, suffering, and distress. It is a condition that arises as a consequence of foolishness and unwise choices. When a person acts foolishly, they often bring harm upon themselves and invite hardships into their lives.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of wisdom and intelligence in making decisions and leading a successful life.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:11-12)

And when it is said to them, 'Do not cause corruption on the earth,' they say, 'We are but reformers.' Unquestionably, it is they who are the corrupters, but they perceive it not.

This verse highlights the consequences of foolishness and ignorance. Those who act foolishly and arrogantly may believe they are doing good, but in reality, they are causing corruption and harm. Their lack of wisdom blinds them to the negative impact of their actions.

In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah says, (Quran 8:49)

O you who have believed, do not be like those who disbelieved and said about their brothers when they traveled through the land or went out to fight, 'If they had been with us, they would not have died or have been killed,' so Allah makes that [misconception] a regret within their hearts.

This verse highlights the foolishness of making assumptions and judgments without proper knowledge and understanding. The disbelievers in this context made baseless claims about their fellow believers, thinking that their absence would have prevented their deaths. However, Allah exposes their foolishness and causes them to regret their misguided thoughts.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us that foolishness leads to wretchedness. When we act without wisdom and understanding, we invite difficulties and hardships into our lives. Our decisions have consequences, and it is essential to make choices based on knowledge, reflection, and the teachings of Islam.

Foolishness can manifest in various forms, such as engaging in haram activities, neglecting our religious obligations, making impulsive decisions, or failing to seek knowledge. Each of these actions can lead to negative outcomes and a sense of wretchedness in this world and the hereafter.

Therefore, as Muslims, it is crucial to seek knowledge, reflect upon the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his purified progeny. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of foolishness and strive for a life of wisdom, righteousness, and success.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to make sound decisions and protect us from the wretchedness of foolishness. May He guide us on the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.