Hadith #7117

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights two important qualities that are derived from intelligence: keeping away from wastefulness and possessing good management skills. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word "mujanabah" in the Hadith refers to "keeping away" or "avoiding." It implies a conscious effort to distance oneself from wastefulness. Wastefulness, or "tabdhir" in Arabic, refers to the excessive and unnecessary expenditure of resources, whether they be material possessions, time, or energy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of avoiding extravagance and wastefulness in the Quran.

In Surah Al-Isra (17:27), Allah says,

Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.

This verse highlights the spiritual and moral consequences of wastefulness. It equates those who engage in wasteful behavior with the companionship of the devil himself. By avoiding wastefulness, Muslims demonstrate their gratitude to Allah and distance themselves from the path of Satan.

Furthermore, the concept of good management, or "husn al-tadbir," mentioned in the Hadith, encompasses the ability to plan, organize, and utilize resources effectively. It involves making wise decisions and taking calculated actions. The Quran emphasizes the importance of good management in various contexts.

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197), Allah says,

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the importance of planning and preparing for the future, but it also emphasizes that the best provision one can have is piety. Good management is not solely about material possessions but also about spiritual preparedness and mindfulness of Allah.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that intelligence is not limited to intellectual capacity alone but also encompasses practical wisdom and the ability to make sound decisions. By avoiding wastefulness and practicing good management, Muslims can lead balanced and purposeful lives.

Avoiding wastefulness has numerous benefits. It promotes gratitude, contentment, and mindfulness of Allah's blessings. It also fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment and society. By managing resources effectively, Muslims can contribute to the betterment of their communities and fulfill their obligations as stewards of the Earth.

Good management skills, on the other hand, enable individuals to achieve their goals and fulfill their responsibilities effectively. It allows them to prioritize their tasks, allocate resources wisely, and make informed decisions. By practicing good management, Muslims can excel in their personal, professional, and spiritual endeavors.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his unparalleled wisdom and knowledge, exemplified these qualities throughout his life. His ability to manage the affairs of the Muslim community during his caliphate is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills. He was known for his frugality, justice, and meticulous planning, which earned him the title of

The Gate of Wisdom.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of avoiding wastefulness and practicing good management. These qualities are derived from intelligence and are supported by numerous Quranic verses. By embodying these virtues, Muslims can lead purposeful lives, fulfill their responsibilities, and contribute positively to society. May Allah grant us the wisdom to implement these teachings in our lives.