Hadith #7050

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "ثَمَرَةُ العَقْلِ الاِسْتِقامَةُ۔" This can be translated as,

The fruit of intellect is steadfastness [and uprightness].

Let us delve into the essence of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (intellect) "عَقْلِ" refers to the faculty of reasoning, understanding, and discernment that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon human beings. It is through our intellect that we are able to comprehend the world around us, make informed decisions, and distinguish between right and wrong. The intellect is a gift from Allah, and it is meant to be utilized in a manner that leads to righteousness and guidance.

The word (steadfastness/uprightness) "اِسْتِقامَةُ" refers to the state of being firm, upright, and steadfast in one's beliefs, actions, and character. It is the quality of remaining steadfast on the path of truth and righteousness, even in the face of challenges, temptations, and adversities. It is the ability to stay true to one's principles and values, regardless of the circumstances.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of intellect and steadfastness. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the significance of intellect in understanding the true essence of Taqwa (piety) and the need to fear Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all our actions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:200), Allah says,

O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that you may be successful.

This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast and firm in their faith, to persevere in the face of trials and tribulations, and to fear Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) as a means of attaining success.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the connection between intellect and steadfastness. It teaches us that true intellect is not merely about acquiring knowledge, but rather about using that knowledge to remain steadfast on the path of righteousness. It is about applying wisdom and understanding in our actions, and not being swayed by the whims and desires of the world.

When a person possesses true intellect, they are able to make decisions based on sound reasoning and guidance from the Quran and Sunnah. They are not easily influenced by societal pressures or personal desires. They have the strength and determination to remain upright in their beliefs and actions, even when faced with challenges or temptations.

The fruit of such intellect is immense. It leads to a life of righteousness, contentment, and inner peace. It allows a person to navigate through the complexities of life with wisdom and clarity. It enables them to make choices that are pleasing to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and beneficial for their own well-being and the well-being of others.

On the other hand, the absence of steadfastness and uprightness can lead to a life of confusion, instability, and moral decay. Without the guidance of intellect, one may be easily swayed by the temptations of the world and fall into the traps of sin and disobedience. They may lack the strength to resist societal pressures and may compromise their principles and values.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of utilizing our intellect in a manner that leads to steadfastness and uprightness. It calls upon us to cultivate a deep understanding of the Quran and Sunnah, and to apply that knowledge in our daily lives. By doing so, we can attain the fruit of intellect - a life of steadfastness, righteousness, and guidance. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to use our intellect wisely and to remain steadfast on the path of truth.