Hadith #2728

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon Muhammad, his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Acquiring wisdom is [a means of] beautifying speech and employing kindness.

This enlightening Hadith highlights the importance of wisdom, eloquence, and kindness in our interactions with others. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore the Quranic verses that support its exegesis.

The word (hikmah) "حِكْمَةِ" in this Hadith refers to wisdom, which encompasses knowledge, understanding, and the ability to apply knowledge in a beneficial and righteous manner. It is a quality that is highly praised in Islam and is often associated with the Prophets and their successors. The Quran emphasizes the significance of wisdom in various verses, such as in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 269, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great wealth.

The phrase (ijmalu al-nutq) "إجْمالُ النُّطْقِ" in the Hadith refers to beautifying speech. It implies that wisdom enhances one's ability to express themselves eloquently and effectively. The Quran encourages believers to speak in a beautiful and respectful manner. In Surah Al-Isra, verse 53, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Tell My servants to speak in a manner that is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

The phrase (istimaalu al-rifq) "واسْتِعْمالُ الرِّفْقِ" in the Hadith refers to employing kindness. It signifies the importance of using gentleness, compassion, and empathy in our interactions with others. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of kindness and encourages Muslims to treat others with compassion and mercy. In Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 107, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.

Now, let us reflect on the impactful message of this Hadith. Acquiring wisdom not only enhances our understanding and knowledge but also enables us to communicate effectively and beautifully. When we possess wisdom, we are able to choose our words carefully, considering their impact on others. We become mindful of the power of our speech and strive to use it in a way that is pleasing to Allah and beneficial to those around us.

Furthermore, wisdom also leads us to employ kindness in our interactions. When we are wise, we recognize the importance of treating others with respect, empathy, and compassion. We understand that our words and actions have the potential to either uplift or harm others, and we choose to uplift them through acts of kindness. By doing so, we emulate the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt, who were known for their kindness and compassion towards all.

The consequences of acquiring wisdom, beautifying speech, and employing kindness are far-reaching. It fosters harmonious relationships, builds bridges of understanding, and creates an atmosphere of love and compassion within the Muslim community. It also serves as a means of inviting others to Islam, as our wise and kind words and actions can have a profound impact on those around us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of acquiring wisdom, beautifying speech, and employing kindness. It reminds us that these qualities are not only desirable but also essential in our journey towards becoming better Muslims. By seeking wisdom, speaking beautifully, and treating others with kindness, we can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society, reflecting the teachings of Islam and the noble character of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to acquire wisdom and embody kindness in all aspects of our lives.