Hadith #7177

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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.

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

The intelligent person is one who subdues his vain desire with his intellect.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (aql) "عاقل" in Arabic refers to intellect or reason. It is the faculty of the mind that enables us to think, understand, and make rational decisions. The word (qama'a) "قمع" means to subdue or restrain. And (hawa) "هوى" refers to vain desires or whims. Therefore, the Hadith emphasizes the importance of using one's intellect to control and restrain our base desires.

This concept of restraining our desires with intellect is beautifully echoed in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Yusuf (12:53),

And I do not acquit myself. Indeed, the soul is a persistent enjoiner of evil, except those upon which my Lord has mercy. Indeed, my Lord is Forgiving and Merciful.

This verse highlights the inherent inclination of the human soul towards evil desires. It is only through the mercy and guidance of Allah that we can overcome these temptations.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:50), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns us,

But if they do not respond to you - then know that they only follow their [own] desires. And who is more astray than one who follows his desire without guidance from Allah?

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from Allah and not allowing our desires to lead us astray.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith encourages us to use our intellect to control our desires. It reminds us that true intelligence lies in subduing our whims and aligning them with reason and wisdom. By doing so, we can make sound decisions that are in line with the teachings of Islam.

For example, when faced with the temptation to engage in unlawful activities, such as dishonesty or immorality, an intelligent person will use their intellect to recognize the consequences of their actions. They will understand that indulging in such desires may bring temporary pleasure but will ultimately lead to spiritual and emotional harm. They will restrain themselves and choose the path of righteousness, guided by their intellect.

Moreover, this Hadith also highlights the importance of self-control and discipline. It reminds us that our intellect should govern our actions, rather than being driven solely by our desires. This aligns with the teachings of the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of self-restraint and self-discipline.

In Surah Al-A'raf (7:201), Allah says,

Indeed, those who fear Allah - when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember [Him] and at once they have insight.

This verse emphasizes the role of intellect in recognizing and resisting the temptations of Satan. It is through the power of intellect that we can overcome our base desires and make choices that are pleasing to Allah.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith teaches us the importance of using our intellect to control and subdue our vain desires. It reminds us that true intelligence lies in making rational decisions and restraining ourselves from indulging in harmful desires. By aligning our actions with reason and wisdom, we can lead a life that is pleasing to Allah and beneficial for our spiritual growth. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to subdue our desires with our intellect.