Hadith #7288

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

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

Follow the intelligent one and you will benefit.

This short but enlightening saying holds great wisdom and guidance for all Muslims.

The word (intelligent) "عاقِلَ" in this Hadith refers to someone who possesses wisdom, understanding, and sound judgment. It is someone who has the ability to analyze situations, make rational decisions, and act in a way that is beneficial and in line with the teachings of Islam. The transliteration of this word is "aaqil".

To understand the significance of following the intelligent one, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. In Surah Al-Zumar, verse 9, Allah says,

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It emphasizes the superiority of the knowledgeable ones and encourages Muslims to seek knowledge and follow those who possess it.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mujadila, verse 11, Allah says,

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse indicates that Allah elevates the believers who possess knowledge. It shows that knowledge is a means of spiritual elevation and growth.

When we apply these Quranic teachings to the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that following the intelligent one leads to numerous benefits. By following someone who possesses knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, we gain insights and guidance that can help us make better decisions in our lives. We benefit from their experiences, teachings, and perspectives, which can lead to personal growth, spiritual development, and success in both this world and the hereafter.

For example, if we seek guidance on matters of faith, we can turn to knowledgeable scholars who have studied the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet (ﷺ) extensively. By following their teachings and advice, we can deepen our understanding of Islam, strengthen our relationship with Allah, and live a life that is in accordance with His commands.

Similarly, in matters of worldly affairs, following the intelligent one can lead to success and prosperity. For instance, if we seek guidance on financial matters, we can follow the advice of experts who possess knowledge and expertise in the field of economics and finance. By doing so, we can make informed decisions, avoid financial pitfalls, and secure a stable future for ourselves and our families.

Moreover, following the intelligent one also has broader societal implications. When individuals collectively follow those who possess knowledge and wisdom, it leads to the establishment of a just and prosperous society. It fosters an environment where people make informed decisions, seek justice, and work towards the betterment of humanity as a whole.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of following the intelligent one. By seeking knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, and by following those who possess these qualities, we can benefit in various aspects of our lives. Whether it is in matters of faith, personal development, or worldly affairs, following the intelligent one leads to guidance, success, and prosperity. May Allah grant us the wisdom to recognize and follow those who possess knowledge, and may He bless us with the ability to benefit from their guidance.