Hadith #6314

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

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

The conjecture of the people of insight and intelligence is the closest thing to correctness.

Let us delve into the significance of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (zann) "ظَنُّ" in Arabic refers to conjecture or assumption. It implies forming an opinion or belief based on incomplete information or evidence. However, it is important to note that not all conjectures are equal. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the conjecture of (dhawi al-nuhwa wal-albab) "ذَوِي النُّهى والألْبابِ" - the people of insight and intelligence - is the closest to correctness.

To understand the significance of this statement, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. In Surah Al-Zumar, verse 9, Allah says,

Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and insight and those who lack it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 6, Allah advises us,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying information before forming judgments or making decisions. It encourages us to use our intellect and insight to discern the truth from falsehood.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement aligns perfectly with these Quranic teachings. He highlights the significance of relying on the conjecture of those who possess insight and intelligence. These individuals are not swayed by baseless assumptions or personal biases. Instead, they base their judgments on knowledge, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the situation at hand.

The consequences of following the conjecture of people of insight and intelligence are profound. It leads to informed decisions, just actions, and the avoidance of unnecessary conflicts. When individuals with knowledge and wisdom provide their conjecture, it is rooted in a deep understanding of the circumstances, and their insights can guide others towards the correct path.

For example, during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) demonstrated his exceptional knowledge and insight on numerous occasions. One such instance was during the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, where the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions faced a difficult situation. Some of the companions were hesitant to accept the terms of the treaty, but Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advised the Prophet (ﷺ) to proceed with the treaty, recognizing its long-term benefits for the Muslim community. His insight and intelligence guided the Prophet (ﷺ) to make the correct decision, despite initial reservations.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of relying on the conjecture of people of insight and intelligence. By doing so, we can avoid baseless assumptions and make informed decisions based on knowledge and wisdom. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that encourage seeking knowledge, verifying information, and using our intellect to discern the truth. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek knowledge and follow the guidance of those who possess insight and intelligence.