Hadith #7252

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "مَنْ عَقَلَ اِسْتَقالَ۔" This can be translated as,

One who has intelligence seeks pardon [for the wrong he does].

In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and repentance for one's wrongdoings.

The word (aqala) "عَقَلَ" in this Hadith refers to intelligence or intellect. It signifies the ability to understand, comprehend, and make sound judgments. It is through the exercise of intellect that one realizes the importance of seeking pardon and rectifying their mistakes. This implies that a person who possesses intelligence is aware of their own shortcomings and is proactive in seeking forgiveness.

The word (istaqala) "اِسْتَقالَ" means to seek pardon or forgiveness. It implies humbly acknowledging one's faults and seeking forgiveness from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This act of seeking pardon is not only a means of attaining spiritual purification but also a reflection of one's humility and recognition of their dependence on Allah's mercy.

The importance of seeking forgiveness is emphasized in the Quran as well. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:199)

And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful

This verse highlights the mercy and forgiveness of Allah, encouraging believers to seek His forgiveness. It is through seeking forgiveness that one can attain spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.

Another verse that supports the concept of seeking forgiveness is found in Surah An-Nisa, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:110)

And whoever does a wrong or wrongs himself but then seeks forgiveness of Allah will find Allah Forgiving and Merciful

This verse emphasizes that even if a person commits a wrongdoing, they can still find forgiveness and mercy from Allah by sincerely seeking His forgiveness.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the importance of seeking forgiveness and rectifying our mistakes. It serves as a reminder that intelligence is not limited to knowledge and understanding, but also includes the ability to recognize one's faults and seek forgiveness. By seeking pardon, we acknowledge our imperfections and strive to improve ourselves.

The act of seeking forgiveness has profound consequences in our lives. It purifies our souls, strengthens our relationship with Allah, and brings us closer to attaining His mercy and forgiveness. It also instills humility and self-awareness within us, reminding us of our constant need for Allah's guidance and forgiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that intelligence is not limited to knowledge alone, but also includes seeking forgiveness for our wrongdoings. By acknowledging our faults and seeking pardon, we demonstrate our humility, self-awareness, and our desire to rectify our mistakes. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the intelligence to seek forgiveness and the ability to constantly improve ourselves.