Hadith #7103

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the stark contrast between the acquisition of intellect and the acquisition of ignorance. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, emphasizes that the intellect leads to consideration and precaution, while ignorance leads to negligence and deception.

Let us delve deeper into the words used in this Hadith. The word (aql) "عَقْلِ" refers to intellect or reason, which is a faculty bestowed upon humans by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through the intellect that we are able to comprehend, analyze, and make sound judgments. The word (al-aitibar) "اَلاِعْتِبارُ" means consideration or reflection. It signifies the act of carefully thinking and pondering before making decisions or taking actions. Similarly, the word (al-istizhar) "الاِسْتِظْهارُ" means precaution or taking measures to avoid harm or mistakes.

On the other hand, the word (jahil) "جَهْلِ" refers to ignorance or lack of knowledge. It represents a state of unawareness or being uninformed. The word (al-ghaflah) "الغَفْلَةُ" means negligence or heedlessness. It implies being unaware of the consequences of one's actions or being careless in one's behavior. Lastly, the word (al-ightarar) "اَلاِغْتِرارُ" means deception or delusion. It signifies being deceived by false beliefs or illusions, leading to misguided actions.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge and using intellect in various verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:170)

And when it is said to them, 'Follow what Allah has revealed,' they say, 'Rather, we will follow that which we found our fathers doing.' Even though their fathers understood nothing, nor were they guided?

This verse highlights the folly of blindly following traditions without using intellect and seeking knowledge.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:6)

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 considering and verifying information before acting upon it, as acting out of ignorance can lead to harm and regret.

The consequences of acquiring intellect and practicing consideration and precaution are evident in the lives of the Prophets and the righteous individuals mentioned in the Quran. Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) used his intellect and wisdom to interpret dreams and guide his people during times of famine. Prophet Solomon (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was blessed with immense knowledge and used it to govern with justice and wisdom. These examples highlight the positive outcomes that result from acquiring intellect and using it wisely.

Conversely, the Quran also warns against the consequences of ignorance and negligence. In Surah Al-A'raf, Allah says, (Quran 7:179)

And We have certainly created for Hell many of the jinn and mankind. They have hearts with which they do not understand, they have eyes with which they do not see, and they have ears with which they do not hear. Those are like livestock; rather, they are more astray. It is they who are the heedless

This verse depicts the state of those who choose to remain ignorant and neglect the use of their intellect. They are likened to livestock, devoid of understanding and guidance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge, acquire intellect, and use it wisely. It emphasizes the importance of considering and reflecting upon our actions, as well as taking precautionary measures to avoid harm and mistakes. Conversely, it warns against the dangers of ignorance, negligence, and deception. By following the path of knowledge and intellect, Muslims can strive to make informed decisions, lead righteous lives, and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to acquire intellect and use it for the betterment of ourselves and humanity.