Hadith #7019

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "Intelligence improves deliberation." This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for Muslims in their pursuit of knowledge and decision-making.

Let us first delve into the key words of this Hadith. The word (intelligence) "عَقْلُ" refers to the faculty of reasoning, understanding, and discernment. It encompasses the ability to analyze, comprehend, and make sound judgments. The word (improves) "يُحْسِنُ" signifies the enhancement or refinement of a particular quality or action. And finally, (deliberation) "الرَّوِيَّةَ" refers to the process of carefully considering and reflecting upon a matter before making a decision.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of using our intellect and reasoning abilities in various aspects of life. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197, Allah says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety).

This verse highlights the importance of using our intelligence to make wise decisions, including the provision for our worldly needs.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hashr, verse 18, Allah states,

O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow.

Here, Allah encourages believers to reflect upon their actions and make deliberate choices, indicating the significance of thoughtful decision-making.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) complements these Quranic teachings by emphasizing the role of intelligence in improving deliberation. It highlights the importance of utilizing our intellectual capabilities to enhance our decision-making process. By employing reason and critical thinking, we can carefully analyze the options before us, weigh their consequences, and make informed choices.

Intelligence, when applied to deliberation, leads to a multitude of benefits. It enables us to avoid impulsive decisions and hasty actions that may have negative consequences. Instead, it encourages us to consider various perspectives, evaluate potential outcomes, and choose the course of action that aligns with our values and principles.

For example, imagine a Muslim who is faced with a business opportunity that seems lucrative but involves engaging in unethical practices. By applying intelligence to their deliberation, they would recognize the long-term consequences of compromising their values and choose to decline the opportunity. In this way, intelligence improves their ability to make morally sound decisions.

Moreover, intelligence in deliberation allows us to navigate complex situations and find innovative solutions. It empowers us to think critically, identify underlying issues, and propose effective strategies. By utilizing our intellect, we can address societal challenges, contribute to the betterment of our communities, and uphold the principles of justice and equity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), "Intelligence improves deliberation," serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to utilize their intellectual capabilities in making informed decisions. By employing reason, critical thinking, and reflection, we can enhance our ability to navigate life's challenges, uphold our values, and contribute positively to society. May Allah grant us the wisdom and intelligence to make sound choices and guide us on the path of righteousness.