Hadith #2873

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 progeny, and his noble companions.

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

لا يَحْلُمُ عَنِ السَّفيهِ إلاّ العاقِلُ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of intelligence and wisdom in dealing with foolish individuals. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its essence in light of the Quran.

The word (yahllumu) "يَحْلُمُ" in this Hadith translates to "shows forbearance" or "exercises patience." It signifies the act of restraining oneself from responding impulsively or harshly to the foolish behavior of others. The word (as-safīh) "السَّفيهِ" refers to someone who is foolish or lacking in intellect. On the other hand, (al-'āqil) "العاقِلُ" refers to an intelligent and wise person.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the virtues of patience and wisdom. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:155-156)

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient, who, when disaster strikes them, say, 'Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return'

This ayah highlights the importance of patience in times of difficulty. It teaches us that true believers respond to trials with patience and trust in Allah's plan. Similarly, in Surah Al-Asr, Allah says, (Quran 103:1-3)

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience

This ayah emphasizes the importance of righteous actions and advising one another to truth and patience. It reminds us that patience is a virtue that leads to success in this life and the hereafter.

Now, let us reflect on the essence of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the fact that only an intelligent and wise person can exercise patience and forbearance towards the foolish. This requires a deep understanding of human nature, the ability to control one's emotions, and the wisdom to choose the most appropriate response in any given situation.

When faced with foolish behavior, an intelligent person does not stoop to the same level of ignorance. Instead, they respond with wisdom, kindness, and understanding. They recognize that responding impulsively or harshly will only escalate the situation and lead to further harm. By exercising patience, they maintain their own dignity and strive to guide the foolish towards a better understanding.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate intelligence and wisdom in their interactions with others. It encourages us to respond to ignorance and foolishness with patience and understanding, rather than reacting impulsively or with anger.

By embodying the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), Muslims can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society. They can inspire others to seek knowledge, develop wisdom, and strive for excellence in their character and conduct.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of intelligence and wisdom in dealing with foolish individuals. It reminds us to exercise patience and forbearance, even in the face of ignorance. By following the guidance of the Quran and the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can strive to be intelligent and wise individuals who contribute positively to our communities and uphold the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to embody these virtues and guide us on the path of righteousness.