Hadith #7242

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

كُلُّ عاقِل مَغْمُومٌ (مَحْزُونٌ)

which translates to

Every intelligent person is sorrowful (or sad).

This enlightening saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) requires a deeper understanding in light of the Quran.

The word (intelligent) "عاقِل" refers to someone who possesses wisdom, understanding, and discernment. It is important to note that intelligence in this context is not limited to mere intellectual capacity, but rather encompasses emotional intelligence and spiritual wisdom as well. The word (sorrowful or sad) "مَغْمُومٌ" refers to a state of deep sadness, grief, or melancholy.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 286:

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that every individual is tested in different ways, and Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) does not burden us with more than we can handle. Therefore, the sorrow or sadness mentioned in the Hadith does not imply a state of despair or hopelessness, but rather a recognition of the challenges and trials that an intelligent person may face.

In Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 2, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tried?

This verse emphasizes that trials and tribulations are an inherent part of life, and they serve as a means of testing and purifying our faith. An intelligent person, with their deep understanding and wisdom, recognizes the transient nature of this world and the challenges it presents.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Insan, verse 28, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

This verse highlights that trials can manifest in various forms, including fear, hunger, loss of wealth, and even the loss of loved ones. It is through these trials that an intelligent person gains wisdom, resilience, and a deeper connection with their Creator.

The sorrow or sadness mentioned in the Hadith can be seen as a reflection of the profound awareness an intelligent person possesses. They understand the impermanence of this world and the struggles that come with it. This awareness leads to a sense of responsibility and a desire to seek guidance and solace from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Moreover, the sorrow or sadness experienced by an intelligent person can motivate them to strive for personal growth, seek knowledge, and work towards positive change. It can serve as a driving force to seek closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through acts of worship, supplication, and remembrance. It is through this recognition of the challenges of life and the pursuit of spiritual growth that an intelligent person can find solace and contentment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Every intelligent person is sorrowful (or sad)

highlights the profound understanding and wisdom that an intelligent person possesses. It is not a call to despair or hopelessness, but rather a recognition of the trials and challenges that come with intelligence. By turning to the Quran, we can understand that these trials are a means of testing and purifying our faith, and they can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and spiritual development. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to navigate through the challenges of life with patience and steadfastness.