Hadith #7059

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,

A strong intellect is the beauty of the outward and inward facets [of a human being].

This wise utterance highlights the significance of possessing a sound and sharp intellect, which encompasses both the external and internal dimensions of a person.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (husn) "حُسْنُ" refers to beauty, goodness, or excellence. It signifies the quality of being aesthetically pleasing and morally upright. (al-'aql) "العَقلِ" refers to intellect or reason, which is the faculty of understanding, discerning, and making sound judgments. (jamal) "جَمالُ" refers to beauty, grace, or elegance. (adh-dhawahir) "الظَّواهِرِ" refers to the outward aspects or appearances, while (al-bawatin) "البَواطِنِ" refers to the inner aspects or hidden dimensions.

To comprehend the significance of a strong intellect being the beauty of both the outward and inward facets, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of intellect and reason in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 22, Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the value of intellect and the consequences of neglecting it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 269, Allah describes the people of understanding as those who reflect upon His signs and have a deep comprehension of His wisdom. This verse emphasizes the beauty and significance of a strong intellect in understanding and appreciating the signs of Allah in the universe.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that a strong intellect is not limited to mere intellectual prowess or academic knowledge. It encompasses both the outward and inward aspects of a person. The outward aspect refers to the physical appearance and conduct, while the inward aspect refers to the thoughts, intentions, and spiritual state.

A person with a strong intellect manifests beauty in their outward appearance by embodying noble character traits such as kindness, honesty, and humility. They are mindful of their words and actions, treating others with respect and compassion. Their behavior reflects the teachings of Islam, and they strive to be a source of inspiration and guidance for others.

Moreover, a person with a strong intellect beautifies their inward dimensions by cultivating a deep understanding of faith, reflecting upon the Quranic teachings, and seeking knowledge. They possess a profound awareness of their own strengths and weaknesses, constantly striving for self-improvement and spiritual growth. Their intellect enables them to make wise decisions, avoid harmful actions, and navigate the challenges of life with wisdom and resilience.

The consequences of possessing a strong intellect are far-reaching. It leads to personal growth, moral development, and a deeper connection with Allah. It enables individuals to contribute positively to society, making informed decisions that benefit themselves and others. A strong intellect also serves as a shield against ignorance, falsehood, and misguided ideologies, allowing Muslims to uphold the true teachings of Islam and defend their faith with wisdom and knowledge.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the immense value of cultivating a strong intellect. It is not merely about acquiring knowledge, but rather about using that knowledge to beautify both our outward and inward dimensions. By nurturing our intellect, we can become beacons of guidance, embodying the true essence of Islam and inspiring others to follow in our footsteps.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to develop a strong intellect that beautifies our entire being, both outwardly and inwardly. May He bless us with the wisdom to make sound judgments and the humility to seek knowledge and understanding. May we be among those who reflect upon His signs and strive to embody the teachings of Islam in every aspect of our lives. Ameen.