Hadith #8575

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

One who is not granted understanding by Allah, the Glorified, does not benefit from the advice of any adviser.

Let us delve into the depths of this Hadith and explore its meanings in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (fahm) "فَهْمَ", which means understanding or comprehension. It refers to the ability to grasp and comprehend the knowledge and wisdom that is imparted to us. This understanding is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and is not something that can be acquired solely through human effort.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of understanding in numerous verses of the Quran. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:286)

Allah will not burden a soul beyond its capacity

This verse highlights the fact that Allah bestows understanding upon individuals according to their capacity. It is through this understanding that we are able to benefit from the advice and guidance of others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar, Allah states, (Quran 39:9)

Is one who is devoutly obedient during periods of the night, prostrating and standing [in prayer], fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord, [like one who does not]? Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding

This verse emphasizes the distinction between those who possess understanding and those who do not. It highlights the superiority of those who have been granted knowledge and comprehension by Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further elaborates on the consequences of lacking understanding. He states that such individuals do not benefit from the advice of any adviser. This means that even if they are surrounded by wise and knowledgeable individuals who offer them guidance, they are unable to derive any benefit from it. This is because understanding is the key that unlocks the doors of wisdom and allows us to internalize and apply the advice we receive.

To illustrate this point, let us consider an example. Imagine a person who is given the most profound and insightful advice by a wise and experienced mentor. However, if this person lacks the understanding to comprehend and implement that advice, it will be of no use to them. They will not be able to benefit from the wisdom and guidance offered to them.

The consequences of lacking understanding extend beyond the realm of worldly advice. In the spiritual realm, understanding is crucial for comprehending the deeper meanings of the Quran and the teachings of Islam. Without understanding, one's worship and devotion may become superficial and devoid of true meaning. It is through understanding that we are able to truly internalize and live by the principles of our faith.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of understanding in benefiting from the advice and guidance of others. It emphasizes that understanding is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and cannot be acquired solely through human effort. We must strive to seek understanding and knowledge, as it is through this understanding that we are able to truly benefit from the wisdom and guidance offered to us. May Allah grant us all the gift of understanding and enable us to benefit from the advice and guidance of the righteous.