Hadith #3013

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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, "قَطيعَةُ الأحْمَقِ حَزْمٌ۔" which translates to

Cutting off [ties with] the fool is judiciousness.

Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (qati'ah) "قَطيعَةُ" refers to the act of severing or cutting off. It implies a complete and decisive disconnection from someone or something. The word (al-ahmaq) "الأحْمَقِ" refers to a fool or an ignorant person. This term encompasses individuals who lack wisdom, understanding, and insight.

To understand the significance of cutting off ties with a fool, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Anfal (8:47), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not be like those who came forth from their homes insolently and to be seen by people and avert them from the way of Allah.

This verse highlights the importance of avoiding the company of those who openly oppose the path of righteousness. Cutting off ties with such individuals is a means of protecting ourselves from their negative influence.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahanah (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them.

This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with those who do not harm us or our faith. However, it does not negate the wisdom in cutting off ties with fools who may lead us astray or hinder our spiritual growth.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to sever connections with fools because associating with them can have detrimental consequences. Fools often lack the knowledge and understanding required to make sound decisions, and their actions may be driven by ignorance or arrogance. By cutting off ties with them, we protect ourselves from being influenced by their misguided beliefs or actions.

Moreover, maintaining ties with fools can lead to unnecessary conflicts and disputes. In Surah Al-Kahf (18:54), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We have certainly diversified in this Qur'an for the people from every [kind of] example; but man has ever been, most of anything, [prone to] dispute.

This verse highlights the tendency of human beings to engage in arguments and disagreements. By cutting off ties with fools, we minimize the likelihood of being drawn into futile debates and conflicts.

Cutting off ties with fools also serves as a means of self-preservation. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who possess knowledge, wisdom, and insight enables us to grow intellectually and spiritually. In Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, when you are told, 'Space yourselves' in assemblies, then make space; Allah will make space for you.

This verse encourages believers to create distance from those who may hinder their progress and to seek the company of those who contribute positively to their growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of cutting off ties with fools. This act of judiciousness protects us from their negative influence, minimizes conflicts, and enables us to surround ourselves with individuals who contribute to our intellectual and spiritual growth. By adhering to this advice, we can strive towards a path of wisdom and righteousness, as exemplified by the teachings of the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding to implement this wisdom in our lives.