Hadith #7181

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 most intelligent person is one who follows the wise people.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from those who possess wisdom and knowledge.

The word (Aqalu) "أعْقَلُ" in the Hadith refers to the most intelligent or wise person. It comes from the root word (Aql) "عَقْل", which means intellect or wisdom. It is the ability to reason, understand, and make sound judgments. In this context, it refers to someone who possesses deep understanding and insight.

The phrase (man ata'a al-'uqalaa) "مَنْ أطاعَ العُقَلاءَ" translates to

one who follows the wise people.

The word (Ata'a) "أطاعَ" means to obey or follow. The term (al-'uqalaa) "العُقَلاءَ" refers to the wise people or those who possess wisdom and knowledge.

This Hadith encourages Muslims to seek guidance from those who are wise and knowledgeable. It highlights the importance of following the teachings and advice of individuals who possess deep understanding and insight. By doing so, one can acquire wisdom and make informed decisions in various aspects of life.

The Quran also emphasizes the significance of seeking knowledge and guidance from those who are wise. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qasas, verse 56:

(Quran 28:56)

Indeed, [O Muhammad], you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse highlights that true guidance comes from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) alone. It is He who grants wisdom and knowledge to whom He wills. Therefore, it is essential for Muslims to seek guidance from those who are chosen by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and possess deep understanding.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am, verse 122, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

(Quran 6:122)

Is one who was dead and We gave him life and made for him light by which to walk among the people like one who is in darkness, never to emerge therefrom? Thus it has been made pleasing to the disbelievers that which they were doing.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking guidance from those who have been granted spiritual life and enlightenment by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Just as a person who was dead and brought back to life can see and navigate through darkness, those who possess wisdom and knowledge can guide others towards the right path.

In light of this Hadith and the Quranic verses mentioned, we can understand that seeking guidance from wise and knowledgeable individuals is crucial for personal growth and spiritual development. By following the teachings and advice of those who possess deep understanding, we can acquire wisdom and make informed decisions in various aspects of our lives.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was known for his immense knowledge and wisdom. His teachings and sayings are a source of guidance for Muslims. By following his example and seeking knowledge from him, we can strive to become more intelligent and make better choices in our lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from wise and knowledgeable individuals. By following the teachings and advice of those who possess deep understanding, we can acquire wisdom and make informed decisions in various aspects of our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek knowledge and guidance from those who are wise and may He bless us with wisdom and understanding.