Hadith #7243

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) emphasizes the importance of balance and wisdom in the lives of Muslims. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to be intelligent and knowledgeable in matters pertaining to our religion, while remaining simple and unassuming in our worldly affairs.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound statement. The word (intelligent) "عاقِلاً" in the Hadith refers to having deep understanding, wisdom, and discernment in matters of religion. It implies that a Muslim should strive to acquire knowledge, comprehend the teachings of Islam, and apply them in their daily lives. This intelligence in religious matters enables us to make informed decisions, follow the right path, and avoid falling into ignorance or misguidance.

To support this exegesis, we find a relevant Quranic verse in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the importance of knowledge and intelligence in matters of faith. It emphasizes that those who possess knowledge and understanding are not equal to those who are ignorant. Therefore, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice to be intelligent in religious affairs aligns with the teachings of the Quran.

On the other hand, the word (simple) "جاهِلاً" in the Hadith refers to being unpretentious, humble, and uncomplicated in worldly matters. It implies that while we should strive for excellence in our religious pursuits, we should not become overly consumed by the materialistic aspects of this world. Instead, we should maintain a balanced approach, focusing on the essentials and avoiding unnecessary complexities.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of simplicity and moderation in worldly affairs. In Surah Al-Qasas (28:77), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.

This verse reminds us to prioritize the pursuit of the Hereafter while still fulfilling our responsibilities in this world. It encourages us to strike a balance between our spiritual and worldly obligations.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice holds profound wisdom and practical implications for Muslims. By being intelligent in religious matters, we can deepen our understanding of Islam, strengthen our faith, and make informed decisions that align with the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This intelligence enables us to navigate the challenges of life, overcome doubts, and avoid falling into the traps of ignorance and misguidance.

Simultaneously, by being simple in our worldly affairs, we can avoid excessive attachment to material possessions, status, and worldly desires. This simplicity allows us to focus on what truly matters, such as our relationships with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and our fellow human beings. It helps us maintain a sense of humility, contentment, and gratitude, while avoiding the distractions and temptations that can lead us astray.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a timeless reminder for Muslims to strike a balance between their religious and worldly affairs. By being intelligent in religious matters and simple in worldly matters, we can lead a balanced and fulfilling life, guided by the teachings of Islam and the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to implement this advice in our lives.