Hadith #7113

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

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

مَنْ لاعَقْلَ لَهُ لاتَرْتَجيهِ۔

This can be translated as,

Do not have any expectations from one who has no intellect.

In this amazing Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of intellect and warns against relying on or expecting anything from those who lack it.

The word "لاعَقْلَ" in the Hadith refers to someone who lacks intellect or understanding. It signifies a person who is devoid of rational thinking, wisdom, and the ability to comprehend and make sound judgments. Such individuals may be driven by base desires, ignorance, or a lack of moral guidance.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 8:22)

Indeed, the worst of living creatures in the sight of Allah are the deaf and dumb who do not use reason.

This verse emphasizes the importance of reason and intellect in distinguishing between right and wrong. It implies that those who lack intellect are considered to be among the worst of creatures in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 7:179)

Indeed, We have created many of the jinn and mankind for Hellfire. They have hearts with which they do not understand, they have eyes with which they do not see, and they have ears with which they do not hear. They are like cattle; rather, they are more astray. It is they who are the heedless.

This verse highlights the consequences of lacking intellect and understanding. Those who do not utilize their hearts and faculties of perception to comprehend the truth are likened to cattle and are ultimately destined for the Hellfire.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that it is futile to expect wisdom, guidance, or rational behavior from individuals who lack intellect. It urges us to be cautious in our interactions and associations, recognizing that those who are devoid of intellect may not possess the ability to make sound decisions or comprehend the consequences of their actions.

This Hadith also emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and nurturing our intellect. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was renowned for his immense knowledge and wisdom, and his teachings continue to inspire Muslims to this day. By acquiring knowledge, reflecting on the Quran, and seeking guidance from the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt, we can develop our intellect and make informed choices in our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims to place their trust and expectations in individuals who possess intellect and understanding. It warns against relying on those who lack rational thinking and urges us to seek knowledge and nurture our own intellect. By doing so, we can make informed decisions and align ourselves with the teachings of Islam, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and righteous life. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to follow the path of righteousness.