Hadith #7115

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of showing compassion to those who lack knowledge or understanding. The word (awkad) "أوْكَدِ" in the Hadith is derived from the root word (wakada) "وَكَدَ", which means to affirm or confirm. It implies that showing compassion to the ignorant is not only a recommended act, but also one of the most effective means to enhance one's intelligence and wisdom.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding throughout the Quran, and encourages Muslims to be compassionate and patient when dealing with those who lack knowledge.

In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), Allah says,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse highlights the importance of verifying information and not jumping to conclusions based on limited knowledge. It encourages Muslims to be patient and compassionate when dealing with those who may not have the correct understanding.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Furqan (25:63), Allah describes the characteristics of the servants of the Most Merciful, saying,

And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace.

This verse emphasizes the importance of responding to ignorance and harshness with peace and kindness. It is through compassion and patience that one can effectively guide others towards knowledge and understanding.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement holds great wisdom and practicality. When we encounter individuals who lack knowledge or understanding, it is essential to approach them with compassion and empathy. By doing so, we create an environment where they feel comfortable seeking knowledge and asking questions. This approach not only helps in dispelling ignorance but also fosters a sense of unity and harmony within the Muslim community.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified this quality throughout his life. His vast knowledge and wisdom were accompanied by his unparalleled patience and compassion towards those who sought guidance. He would patiently address the questions and concerns of the ignorant, providing them with the necessary knowledge and understanding.

By showing compassion to the ignorant, we not only uplift their intellectual capabilities but also contribute to the overall growth and development of the Muslim ummah. It is through this act of kindness that we can bridge the gap between the knowledgeable and the ignorant, fostering a society that values education, understanding, and unity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to show compassion to those who lack knowledge or understanding. By doing so, we not only enhance our own intelligence and wisdom but also contribute to the growth and development of the Muslim ummah. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody this noble characteristic and guide others towards knowledge and understanding.