Hadith #8628

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The outward aspect of the Qur’an is elegant and its inward aspect is profound.

This thought-provoking Hadith highlights the beauty and depth of the Qur'an, emphasizing that its elegance is not limited to its external appearance but extends to its inner meanings and messages.

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (dhaahir) "ظاهِرُ" refers to the outward or apparent aspect of something, while (aneeq) "أنيقٌ" means elegant or beautiful. On the other hand, (baatinuhu) "باطِنُهُ" refers to the inward or hidden aspect, and (ameeq) "عَميقٌ" means profound or deep.

To support the exegesis of this Hadith, we can turn to the Qur'an itself. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qamar (54:17),

And We have certainly made the Qur'an easy for remembrance, so is there any who will remember?

This verse highlights the ease with which the Qur'an can be recited and memorized, emphasizing its outward elegance and simplicity.

However, the Qur'an is not merely a superficial text. It possesses a profound depth that requires contemplation and reflection. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hijr (15:75),

Indeed, in this [Qur'an] is a message for a people who would give thought.

This verse emphasizes the need for deep reflection and contemplation upon the Qur'an's verses, indicating its inward profundity.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the Qur'an is not limited to its external beauty. Its true essence lies in its profound meanings, teachings, and guidance. Just as a beautiful piece of art may captivate our eyes, the Qur'an's elegance captures our hearts and minds. However, its true impact is felt when we delve into its depths, seeking to understand its timeless wisdom and applying it to our lives.

When we approach the Qur'an with an open heart and a sincere desire for guidance, its inward aspect reveals itself to us. It provides us with profound insights into the nature of our existence, the purpose of life, and the path to righteousness. The Qur'an's teachings on justice, compassion, and morality serve as a guide for Muslims in all aspects of their lives.

Moreover, the inward aspect of the Qur'an also refers to its spiritual and metaphysical dimensions. It contains hidden meanings and layers of interpretation that can only be grasped by those who possess deep knowledge and insight. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his exceptional knowledge and wisdom, was able to comprehend the profound depths of the Qur'an like no other.

The consequences of recognizing the elegance and profundity of the Qur'an are immense. It inspires Muslims to strive for a deeper understanding of its teachings, leading to personal growth and spiritual enlightenment. By contemplating the Qur'an's verses, Muslims can gain valuable insights into the complexities of life and find solace in times of difficulty.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the Qur'an is not merely a book of beautiful words, but a profound guide for humanity. Its outward elegance captures our attention, while its inward profundity nourishes our souls. As Muslims, we should strive to explore the depths of the Qur'an, seeking its guidance and wisdom in all aspects of our lives. May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to understand and implement the teachings of the Qur'an.