Hadith #7128

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise and thanks are due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his righteous companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the importance of three qualities: intellect, knowledge, forbearance, and power. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith and explore its deeper meanings in light of the Quran.

The first quality mentioned by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is (intellect) "عَقْل", which refers to the ability to think, reason, and understand. The Quran emphasizes the importance of intellect in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:164), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.

This verse encourages Muslims to use their intellect to reflect upon the signs of Allah's creation.

The second quality mentioned is (knowledge) "عِلْم", which refers to acquiring knowledge and understanding. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant. Knowledge is a means of enlightenment and guidance, enabling individuals to make informed decisions and live a righteous life.

The third quality mentioned is (forbearance) "حِلْم", which refers to patience, tolerance, and self-control. The Quran praises those who possess forbearance and self-restraint. In Surah Al-Imran (3:134), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of controlling one's anger and forgiving others, even in difficult situations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further adds that these qualities are enhanced when accompanied by (power) "قُدْرَة". Power here refers to the ability to enforce justice and punish wrongdoing. This power should be used responsibly and in accordance with the principles of justice and fairness. The Quran emphasizes the importance of establishing justice and punishing wrongdoers. In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the combination of intellect, knowledge, forbearance, and power is essential for establishing a just and balanced society. Intellect enables us to think critically and make wise decisions, while knowledge equips us with the necessary understanding to navigate through life. Forbearance allows us to exercise patience and self-control, even in challenging circumstances. Power, when used responsibly, ensures that justice is upheld and wrongdoers are held accountable.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for excellence in these qualities. By cultivating our intellect, seeking knowledge, practicing forbearance, and using power responsibly, we can contribute to the betterment of society and establish justice in accordance with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to embody these qualities and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims.