Hadith #7235

Praise be to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), the Most Merciful and the Most Compassionate. Blessings and peace be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his noble family, the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his righteous companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he describes the qualities of those who possess intellect and understanding. Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith and their meanings.

The word (shimatu) "شيمَةُ" refers to the quality or characteristic of a person. It signifies a distinguishing feature or attribute that sets an individual apart. In this context, it represents the quality possessed by those who have intellect and understanding.

(dhawi al-albab) "ذَوِى الألْبابِ" refers to those who possess intellect and understanding. It highlights the importance of wisdom and knowledge in guiding one's actions and decisions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that true intellect lies in recognizing the transient nature of this world and seeking the eternal abode.

The phrase (al-nuhu al-iqbalu 'ala dar al-baqaa)

النُّهى اَلإقْبالُ على دارِ البَقاءِ

means turning towards the Eternal Abode. It signifies the inclination and preference of the believers towards the everlasting life in the Hereafter. It implies a conscious effort to prioritize the eternal over the temporary, recognizing the impermanence of worldly pleasures.

On the other hand, (al-i'radu 'an dar al-fanaa)

الإعْراضُ عَنْ دارِ الفَناءِ

means turning away from the evanescent abode. It refers to the detachment from the material world and its allurements. It entails refraining from excessive attachment to worldly possessions and desires, realizing that they are fleeting and transient.

Lastly, (al-tawalluhu bi jannati al-ma'wa) "التَّوَلُّهُ بِجَنَّةِ المَأْوى" signifies the yearning for the Garden of Paradise. It represents the intense desire and longing for the eternal bliss and rewards promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the Hereafter. It reflects the aspiration to attain the ultimate abode of peace, joy, and everlasting happiness.

To understand the significance of these qualities, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 201:

And of them are those who say, 'Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

This ayah emphasizes the importance of seeking goodness in both this world and the Hereafter. It highlights the balanced approach of a believer who recognizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and seeks the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. The qualities described by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) align with this Quranic guidance, urging Muslims to prioritize the everlasting abode over the transient one.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Kahf, Ayah 46, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says:

Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.

This ayah reminds us that worldly possessions and relationships are merely temporary adornments. They may bring temporary pleasure and comfort, but they hold no value in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) compared to the enduring good deeds. The qualities described by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urge Muslims to detach themselves from the allurements of this world and focus on building a strong connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through righteous actions.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can understand that possessing intellect and understanding goes beyond mere knowledge. It encompasses the ability to discern between the eternal and the temporary, to prioritize the Hereafter over this world, and to yearn for the ultimate abode of Paradise. It requires a deep understanding of the transient nature of worldly possessions and the recognition that true success lies in seeking the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the everlasting life to come.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to embody the qualities described by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). May we turn towards the Eternal Abode, turn away from the evanescent abode, and yearn for the Garden of Paradise. May our actions in this world be guided by the pursuit of eternal success and may we be among those who are granted the highest ranks in the Hereafter.