Hadith #7026

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "العقلُ أشرفُ مزية" which translates to

Intellect is the most honourable merit.

This thought-provoking saying highlights the significance and superiority of intellect in the realm of virtues and merits.

The word (intellect) "عقل" refers to the faculty of reasoning, understanding, and discernment that distinguishes humans from other creatures. It encompasses the ability to think critically, make sound judgments, and comprehend complex concepts. The term (most honourable) "أشرف" denotes the highest level of nobility and excellence. It signifies that intellect is the most noble and esteemed quality that a person can possess.

The importance of intellect is emphasized in the Quran as well. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly calls upon humans to use their intellect and reasoning abilities to reflect upon His signs and guidance. In Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 43, Allah says,

And these examples We present to the people, but none will understand them except those of knowledge.

This verse highlights the significance of knowledge and intellect in comprehending the deeper meanings of Allah's signs.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 269, Allah states,

He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good.

This verse emphasizes that wisdom, which is closely related to intellect, is a great blessing from Allah. It is through wisdom that one can make wise decisions, understand the truth, and navigate through the complexities of life.

Imam Ali's statement regarding the superiority of intellect holds profound implications for individuals and society as a whole. Intellect enables individuals to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood, and make informed choices based on rationality and wisdom. It empowers them to seek knowledge, understand the teachings of Islam, and apply them in their lives.

Intellect also plays a crucial role in the development and progress of society. It enables individuals to contribute positively to their communities, solve problems, and make advancements in various fields. Through intellect, societies can establish justice, promote equality, and create an environment conducive to growth and prosperity.

Moreover, Imam Ali's statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the cultivation of intellect and knowledge. It encourages Muslims to seek education, engage in critical thinking, and continuously strive for intellectual growth. By doing so, they can better understand the teachings of Islam, refute misconceptions, and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the superiority of intellect as the most honourable merit. It emphasizes the importance of using our reasoning abilities to seek knowledge, make informed decisions, and contribute positively to society. By prioritizing the cultivation of intellect, Muslims can fulfill their responsibilities as stewards of knowledge and contribute to the betterment of humanity. May Allah grant us the wisdom and intellect to understand His guidance and apply it in our lives.