فِي الغَيْبِ العَجَبُ۔
In the unseen there is wonder.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: The Unseen)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.
The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "فِي الغَيْبِ العَجَبُ۔" This hadith can be translated as,
In the unseen there is wonder.
Let us delve into the connotation of this statement in light of the Quran.
The word (ghayb) "غَيْبِ" in this hadith refers to the realm of the unseen, the hidden knowledge that is beyond the perception of human senses. It encompasses the knowledge of the past, present, and future, as well as the knowledge of the unknown and the mysteries of the universe. The word (ajab) "عَجَبُ" means wonder, amazement, or astonishment.
Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has repeatedly emphasized the concept of the unseen in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:2-3)
This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah - Who believe in the unseen...
This verse highlights the importance of having faith in the unseen, acknowledging that there are aspects of knowledge that are beyond our comprehension.
The concept of the unseen is further emphasized in Surah Al-An'am, where Allah says, (Quran 6:59)
And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it. And no grain is there within the darknesses of the earth and no moist or dry [thing] but that it is [written] in a clear record.
This verse demonstrates the comprehensive knowledge of Allah, who possesses the keys to the unseen and is aware of every detail in the universe.
Imam Ali's statement,
In the unseen there is wonder,
highlights the vastness and depth of knowledge that lies beyond our perception. It reminds us that there are countless mysteries and marvels in the unseen realm that we may never fully comprehend. This statement encourages us to reflect upon the wonders of creation and the limitless knowledge of Allah.
When we contemplate the wonders of the unseen, it instills a sense of humility and awe within us. We realize that our knowledge is limited and that there is so much more to discover and understand. This realization should motivate us to seek knowledge, to explore the mysteries of the universe, and to deepen our understanding of the signs of Allah in the world around us.
Furthermore, recognizing the wonder of the unseen should also strengthen our faith in Allah. We understand that He is the All-Knowing, the All-Wise, and that His knowledge encompasses everything, even that which is hidden from us. This understanding should deepen our trust in His divine plan and His ability to guide us through the challenges and uncertainties of life.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ),
In the unseen there is wonder,
reminds us of the vastness and depth of knowledge that lies beyond our perception. It encourages us to reflect upon the mysteries and marvels of creation, to seek knowledge, and to deepen our faith in Allah. May Allah grant us the ability to appreciate the wonders of the unseen and to increase our knowledge and understanding.
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