Hadith #7118

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 and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Adorning oneself with forbearance (or knowledge) is from the best intelligence.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge and cultivating the virtue of forbearance in one's character.

The word (tahallī) "تَحَلّي" in the Hadith means "adorning oneself" or "embellishing oneself." It implies that acquiring knowledge and practicing forbearance should not be seen as mere obligations, but rather as qualities that beautify and enhance one's character. It is through these qualities that a person's intelligence is truly manifested.

The word (bil-hilm) "بِالحِلْمِ" in the Hadith means "with forbearance." Forbearance refers to the ability to remain calm and patient in the face of adversity, to control one's anger, and to respond to others with kindness and understanding. It is a quality that reflects wisdom and intelligence.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 134:

Who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of restraining anger and pardoning others, which are essential components of forbearance. It teaches us that those who possess these qualities are beloved to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By adorning ourselves with forbearance, we not only please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), but also foster harmonious relationships with our fellow Muslims.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 12:

O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding negative assumptions, spying, and backbiting. It encourages Muslims to have a positive outlook towards others and to refrain from spreading harm through their words or actions. By adorning ourselves with forbearance, we cultivate a mindset of goodwill and fairness, which leads to a more harmonious and compassionate society.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we can see the profound impact that adorning oneself with knowledge and forbearance can have on an individual and the wider Muslim community. Knowledge not only enlightens the mind but also guides our actions and decisions. It enables us to understand the teachings of Islam, to differentiate between right and wrong, and to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and insight.

Furthermore, knowledge empowers us to respond to challenges and conflicts with patience and understanding. It allows us to see beyond the surface level and to recognize the underlying causes of misunderstandings or disagreements. By practicing forbearance, we can resolve conflicts amicably, promote unity, and build stronger bonds within the Muslim ummah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified the virtues mentioned in this Hadith. His life serves as a profound example of how knowledge and forbearance can transform individuals and societies. He demonstrated forbearance in the face of adversity, forgave his enemies, and sought peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that adorning ourselves with knowledge and forbearance is a manifestation of true intelligence. By acquiring knowledge and practicing forbearance, we not only enhance our own character but also contribute to the betterment of our Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to adorn ourselves with these noble qualities.