Hadith #9316

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The sagacious person is one who is inattentive towards others while expecting much from [and constantly judging] himself.

This profound statement highlights the importance of self-reflection and self-accountability in the pursuit of wisdom and righteousness.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (kayyis) "كَيِّسُ" refers to a person who possesses wisdom, intelligence, and discernment. It denotes someone who is insightful and possesses the ability to make sound judgments. The word (ghafilan) "غافِلاً" means being inattentive or oblivious. It implies that the sagacious person does not concern themselves with the faults and shortcomings of others. Instead, they focus on their own self-improvement.

The phrase (ghayrihi wa linafsihi) "غَيْرِهِ ولِنَفْسِهِ" translates to "others and himself." It emphasizes that the sagacious person is not preoccupied with the actions and flaws of others, but rather, they are constantly self-reflective and self-critical. They hold themselves to a higher standard and are always striving to improve their own character and actions.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12),

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of refraining from making negative assumptions about others and engaging in backbiting. It encourages Muslims to focus on their own actions and to avoid judging others. The sagacious person, as described in the Hadith, embodies this Quranic teaching by being inattentive towards the faults of others and instead directing their attention inward.

Another verse that complements the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:36), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This verse reminds Muslims to refrain from passing judgment or making assumptions about others without proper knowledge. It encourages individuals to focus on their own actions and intentions, as they will be held accountable for them. The sagacious person, as described in the Hadith, embodies this Quranic teaching by constantly judging and evaluating themselves, rather than engaging in baseless judgments of others.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to prioritize self-reflection and self-improvement. It encourages us to be humble, introspective, and accountable for our own actions. By focusing on our own faults and striving to rectify them, we can cultivate wisdom, righteousness, and a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of being inattentive towards the faults of others while constantly judging and expecting much from ourselves. It urges us to prioritize self-reflection and self-improvement, as exemplified by the sagacious person. By aligning our actions with the teachings of the Quran, we can strive to become individuals who are constantly seeking personal growth and righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the teachings of this Hadith and the Quran.