Hadith #7000

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all 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 states,

The best intelligence is [that which leads to] good etiquette.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding.

The word (intelligence) "عَقْلِ" refers to the faculty of understanding, reasoning, and discernment. It encompasses the ability to comprehend and make sound judgments. It is the intellectual capacity that distinguishes humans from other creatures. In this Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of utilizing this intelligence in the pursuit of good etiquette.

The term (etiquette) "أَدَبُ" refers to refined behavior, manners, and conduct. It encompasses the way we interact with others, showing respect, kindness, and consideration. Good etiquette reflects the inner beauty of a person and is a manifestation of their character. It encompasses honesty, humility, patience, and compassion.

To further understand the significance of good etiquette, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.

This ayah emphasizes the importance of good etiquette in our interactions with others. It teaches us to refrain from ridiculing, insulting, or belittling others. Instead, we should treat everyone with respect and kindness, recognizing that they may be better than us in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This verse highlights the significance of good etiquette in fostering harmonious relationships and maintaining the unity of the Muslim community.

Another verse that supports the importance of good etiquette is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

This verse encourages Muslims to speak in a manner that is best and most respectful. It reminds us that our words have the power to either bring people closer or create divisions. By practicing good etiquette in our speech, we can avoid falling into the traps of Satan and maintain unity among the believers.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of good etiquette in this Hadith because it is through our interactions with others that our true character is revealed. When we possess good etiquette, we are able to navigate through various situations with wisdom, kindness, and empathy. It allows us to build strong relationships, resolve conflicts peacefully, and positively impact those around us.

Good etiquette also has far-reaching consequences. When we treat others with respect and kindness, we inspire them to do the same. Our actions can create a ripple effect, spreading goodness and harmony in society. Conversely, when we lack good etiquette, we risk causing harm, discord, and animosity.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the profound wisdom and knowledge possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His emphasis on good etiquette as the pinnacle of intelligence highlights the importance of nurturing our character and embodying the teachings of Islam in our daily lives.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the best intelligence is one that leads to good etiquette. It emphasizes the significance of utilizing our intellectual capacity to cultivate refined behavior, manners, and conduct. By practicing good etiquette, we not only enhance our relationships and contribute to a harmonious society, but we also demonstrate our true understanding and embodiment of the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and ability to always exhibit good etiquette in our interactions with others.