Hadith #6999

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his family (Ahl al-Bayt), and his companions.

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

The beginning of intelligence is being friendly [with the people].

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of kindness and amicability in the realm of intellect and wisdom. To fully comprehend the depth of this statement, let us delve into the meanings of the key words.

The word (intelligence) "عَقْلِ" refers to the faculty of reasoning, understanding, and discernment. It encompasses the ability to comprehend and analyze situations, make sound judgments, and act wisely. Intelligence is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and is highly valued in Islam.

The word (being friendly) "تَوَدُّدُ" comes from the root word "وَدَدَ" which means affection, love, and goodwill. It signifies the act of showing kindness, compassion, and warmth towards others. It involves treating people with respect, empathy, and generosity.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of kindness, compassion, and good treatment towards others. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah says,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of knowing and understanding one another, which can only be achieved through kindness and friendly interactions. By being friendly, we create an atmosphere of harmony, unity, and mutual respect. This fosters a sense of empathy and understanding among individuals, leading to a more enlightened society.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah says,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse encourages us to choose our words wisely and speak in the best manner. By being friendly and choosing our words carefully, we can avoid conflicts and misunderstandings, thereby promoting peace and harmony.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes that the beginning of intelligence lies in being friendly. This means that true intelligence is not limited to intellectual prowess alone, but also encompasses emotional intelligence and the ability to connect with others on a deeper level.

When we are friendly and kind towards others, we create an environment that encourages open dialogue, collaboration, and the sharing of ideas. This leads to the growth of knowledge and the development of innovative solutions to societal challenges. It also fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims, strengthening the bonds of the Ummah.

Moreover, being friendly has far-reaching consequences. It not only benefits individuals on a personal level but also has a positive impact on society as a whole. When we treat others with kindness, we inspire them to reciprocate, creating a ripple effect of goodwill and compassion. This, in turn, contributes to the establishment of a just and harmonious society, in line with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the beginning of intelligence lies in being friendly. By being kind, compassionate, and respectful towards others, we not only enhance our own intellect but also contribute to the betterment of society. Let us strive to embody this noble trait and spread the message of love and friendship, following the example set by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble family (Ahl al-Bayt). May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, and enable us to be a source of goodness and light in the world.