Hadith #7081

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The symbol of intellect is being affable with the people.

This enlightening saying emphasizes the importance of wisdom and intellect in our interactions with others.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (unwan) "عُنْوانُ" refers to a symbol or an indication, while (al-'aql) "العَقْلِ" signifies intellect or wisdom. Furthermore, (mudarat) "مُداراةُ" means to be affable, kind, and gentle, and (an-nas) "النّاسِ" refers to people in general.

To shed light on the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good character and treating others with kindness and respect. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of knowing and understanding one another, which can only be achieved through affability and kindness. By being affable with others, we create an environment of mutual respect and understanding, fostering unity and harmony within society.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), where Allah says,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse encourages us to choose our words wisely and speak with kindness and compassion. By doing so, we can prevent discord and strife, as Satan seeks to sow division and enmity among people. Being affable with others allows us to counteract the negative influence of Satan and promote unity and understanding.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense wisdom and knowledge, exemplified the teachings of this Hadith throughout his life. His interactions with people were characterized by kindness, empathy, and respect. He understood that by being affable, he could bridge gaps, resolve conflicts, and guide others towards the path of righteousness.

The consequences of embodying the symbol of intellect, as described in this Hadith, are far-reaching. By being affable with others, we not only enhance our own character and spirituality but also contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. Our interactions become a means of spreading goodness, love, and compassion, thereby fostering a harmonious and inclusive community.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating wisdom and intellect in our daily lives. It is not enough to possess knowledge; we must also apply it in our interactions with others. By being affable, we can create a positive impact on those around us, fostering an environment of understanding, respect, and unity.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the symbol of intellect lies in being affable with the people. This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of wisdom and kindness in our interactions. By embodying this principle, we can contribute to the betterment of society and create a harmonious and inclusive community. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to implement this teaching in our lives and enable us to be a source of goodness and compassion for all.