Hadith #8537

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) provides us with valuable guidance on how to conduct ourselves in various situations. Let us delve into the exegesis of this profound Hadith.

The first part of the Hadith states,

Measure and then cut.

The word (Qaddir) "قَدِّرْ" means to measure or assess the situation before taking any action. This emphasizes the importance of careful consideration and planning before making decisions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us in the Quran to use our intellect and ponder over matters before acting upon them. In Surah Al-Anfal, Allah says, (Quran 8:45)

O you who have believed, when you meet a company [from the enemy forces], stand firm and remember Allah much that you may be successful

This verse highlights the need to evaluate the circumstances and make informed choices.

The second part of the Hadith states,

Think and then speak.

The word (Fakkir) "فَكِّرْ" urges us to reflect and contemplate before uttering any words. This teaches us the importance of choosing our words wisely and avoiding hasty speech. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Isra, (Quran 17:53)

And speak to people good [words]

This verse emphasizes the significance of using kind and beneficial words in our interactions with others. By thinking before speaking, we can avoid misunderstandings, hurtful remarks, and unnecessary conflicts.

The third part of the Hadith states,

Verify and then act.

The word (Tabayyan) "تَبَيَّنْ" means to ascertain or verify the truth before taking any action. This highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and ensuring the accuracy of information before making decisions. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) commands us in the Quran, (Quran 49:6)

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful

This verse emphasizes the need to verify the authenticity of information to avoid spreading falsehood and causing harm.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) profound guidance in this Hadith encourages us to adopt a thoughtful and deliberate approach in our actions and interactions. By measuring, thinking, and verifying before cutting, speaking, and acting, we can avoid impulsive decisions, hurtful words, and misguided actions.

Let us reflect upon the consequences of not following this guidance. Hasty decisions can lead to regret and unintended consequences. Rash words can damage relationships and create animosity. Acting without verifying can result in spreading misinformation and causing harm to others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, exemplified these principles throughout his life. His measured approach to governance, his thoughtful sermons, and his meticulous verification of information are all testament to his adherence to this guidance.

As Muslims, we should strive to embody the teachings of this Hadith in our daily lives. By measuring, thinking, and verifying before taking action, we can make informed decisions that align with the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to implement these principles and guide us on the path of righteousness.