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إذا كَتَبْتَ كِتاباً فَأعِدْ فيهِ النَّظَرَ قَبْلَ خَتْمِهِ، فَإنَّما تَخْتِمُ عَلى عَقْلِكَ۔

When you write something then take another look at it before putting a seal on it, for indeed [by putting a seal on it] you are only putting a seal on your intellect [as your intelligence will be gauged by your writing].

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When you write something then take another look at it before putting a...

— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: The Book And Writing)

Personal Reflection

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 (), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of careful consideration and reflection before finalizing any written work. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to take another look at our writings before putting a seal on them, as this act is not merely sealing the document, but also sealing our intellect and intelligence.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (katabta) "كَتَبْتَ" means "you write," indicating the act of putting thoughts and ideas into written form. The word (nathara) "نَظَرَ" means "to look" or "to consider," implying the need for careful examination and contemplation. The word (khatmehi) "خَتْمِهِ" means

putting a seal on it,

symbolizing the finalization and completion of the written work. Finally, the word (aqlika) "عَقْلِكَ" refers to "your intellect" or "your intelligence," highlighting the significance of our thoughts and ideas in shaping our intellectual capacity.

To further comprehend the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:13)

And when it is said to them, 'Believe as the people have believed,' they say, 'Should we believe as the foolish have believed?' Unquestionably, it is they who are the foolish, but they know it not

This verse reminds us of the importance of critical thinking and reflection before accepting or rejecting any belief or idea. It encourages us to use our intellect and not blindly follow the opinions of others.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 20:114)

And say, 'My Lord, increase me in knowledge'

This verse highlights the significance of seeking knowledge and continuously striving to enhance our understanding. It emphasizes the need for intellectual growth and development, which aligns with the advice of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in the Hadith.

Now, let us reflect on the significance of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of thoroughness and attention to detail in our writings. By urging us to take another look at our work before finalizing it, he emphasizes the significance of intellectual integrity and the impact our words can have on others.

When we hastily write without careful consideration, we risk conveying incomplete or inaccurate information. Our writings reflect our intellect and intelligence, and by putting a seal on them without proper reflection, we may unintentionally perpetuate misunderstandings or misinformation. Therefore, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be mindful of the responsibility that comes with writing and to ensure that our words accurately represent our thoughts and ideas.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and self-reflection in all aspects of our lives. It encourages us to continuously examine our thoughts, beliefs, and actions, ensuring that they align with our values and principles. By taking the time to reflect on our writings, we not only improve the quality of our work but also enhance our intellectual capacity and contribute to the dissemination of accurate and beneficial knowledge.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the significance of careful consideration and reflection before finalizing our writings. It reminds us that our words have a profound impact and reflect our intellect and intelligence. By taking another look at our work, we ensure that our writings accurately represent our thoughts and ideas, contributing to the dissemination of accurate knowledge. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to always strive for intellectual integrity and excellence in our writings and actions.

. : . (Readers are advised to verify the sources mentioned above, and to independently research for an accurate understanding of Hadith. Remember, personal research and seeking guidance from scholars are essential in gaining a better insight. Please, do contact us if you find any wrong citations or explanations.)

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