Hadith #7506

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.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

أعْلَمُ النّاسِ بِاللّهِ أرْضاهُمْ بِقَضائِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

The most learned of people about Allah, the Glorified, are the most satisfied with His decree.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the light of the Quran. The word (the most learned) "أعْلَمُ" emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding in matters pertaining to Allah. It signifies that those who possess deep knowledge and comprehension of Allah's attributes, His wisdom, and His decree are the ones who truly understand and appreciate His divine plan.

The word (about Allah) "بِاللّهِ" highlights the focus of this knowledge. It is not merely knowledge about worldly affairs or academic pursuits, but specifically about Allah and His divine attributes. This knowledge encompasses understanding His mercy, justice, wisdom, and the purpose behind His decree.

The word (the most satisfied) "أرْضاهُمْ" refers to a state of contentment and acceptance. It implies that those who possess true knowledge about Allah are the ones who are most at peace with His decree, regardless of the circumstances they face. They trust in Allah's wisdom and believe that everything that happens is a part of His divine plan.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:216),

But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.

This verse reminds us that our limited understanding may lead us to dislike something that is actually beneficial for us, and vice versa. Therefore, true knowledge about Allah enables us to trust in His wisdom and accept His decree, even if it goes against our personal desires or expectations.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Anfal (8:46), where Allah says,

And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.

This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience and patience in the face of challenges and difficulties. It reminds us that true knowledge about Allah leads to trust in His decree, which in turn strengthens our resolve and patience.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the profound connection between knowledge, satisfaction with Allah's decree, and the resulting inner peace. When we deepen our understanding of Allah's attributes and His divine plan, we develop a sense of tranquility and acceptance. We realize that everything that happens, whether it is favorable or unfavorable in our limited perception, is ultimately for our own benefit and in accordance with Allah's wisdom.

This Hadith encourages us to seek knowledge about Allah, His attributes, and His decree. It reminds us that true knowledge leads to a state of contentment and acceptance, even in the face of hardships and trials. By cultivating this knowledge and understanding, we can attain a higher level of faith and experience the peace and tranquility that comes with complete trust in Allah's plan.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to be among those who are most satisfied with His decree. May He bless us with the ability to seek knowledge and deepen our understanding of Him, and may He grant us the strength and patience to face the challenges of life with unwavering faith.