Hadith #3130

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, "الخُرْقُ شَينُ الخُلقِ" which translates to

Ineptness is a disgraceful attribute.

In this beautiful Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative nature of ineptness or incompetence.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, it is important to delve into the meanings of the key words. "الخُرْقُ" refers to ineptness or incompetence, indicating a lack of skill, ability, or proficiency in performing a task or fulfilling a responsibility. It signifies a deficiency in one's capabilities and can lead to negative consequences. "شَينُ" means disgraceful or ignoble, implying that ineptness is a quality that brings shame and dishonor.

To further comprehend the wisdom behind this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of competence and proficiency in various aspects of life. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 26, Allah says,

And he entered the city at a time of inattention by its people and found therein two men fighting: one from his faction and one from among his enemy. And the one from his faction called for help to him against the one from his enemy, so Moses struck him and [unintentionally] killed him. [Moses] said, 'This is from the work of Satan. Indeed, he is a manifest, misleading enemy.'

This verse narrates the incident when Prophet Musa (Moses) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) intervened in a fight between two men. However, due to his lack of attention and haste, he unintentionally caused the death of one of them. This incident highlights the consequences of ineptness and the need for careful consideration and competence in our actions.

Another verse that sheds light on the importance of competence is found in Surah Al-Mu'minun, verse 8, where Allah says,

And they who are to their trusts and their promises attentive.

This verse emphasizes the significance of fulfilling one's responsibilities and obligations with diligence and competence. It encourages Muslims to be trustworthy and reliable in all aspects of their lives.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for excellence in all that they do. Ineptness not only hinders personal growth and development but also impacts the well-being of society as a whole. It is through competence and proficiency that individuals can contribute positively to their communities and fulfill their duties and responsibilities.

Furthermore, this Hadith highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and acquiring skills. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was renowned for his vast knowledge and wisdom, and he emphasized the significance of education and continuous learning. By acquiring knowledge and honing our skills, we can overcome ineptness and become valuable assets to society.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the negative nature of ineptness and incompetence. It serves as a call to action for Muslims to strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives, fulfilling their responsibilities with competence and proficiency. By seeking knowledge and continuously improving ourselves, we can overcome ineptness and contribute positively to our communities, ultimately earning the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all on the path of competence and righteousness.