Hadith #11262

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "بِالهُدى يَكْثُرُ الاِسْتِبْصارُ۔" This can be translated as,

Through true guidance discernment increases.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (huda) "هُدى" in this Hadith refers to true guidance, which is the light that illuminates our path towards righteousness. It is the divine guidance bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through His revelations and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. This guidance encompasses all aspects of life, including our beliefs, actions, and interactions with others.

The word (istibsaar) "اِسْتِبْصارُ" refers to discernment or insight. It is the ability to perceive and understand the true nature of things, to differentiate between right and wrong, and to make sound judgments based on knowledge and wisdom. This discernment is not limited to intellectual understanding but also includes spiritual insight and awareness.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of true guidance and the increase in discernment that comes with it. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Anfal (8:24),

O you who have believed, respond to Allah and to the Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life. And know that Allah intervenes between a man and his heart and that to Him you will be gathered.

This verse highlights the connection between responding to the call of Allah and the Messenger and the spiritual awakening that it brings. Through true guidance, our hearts are enlightened, and our discernment is enhanced.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hajj (22:54), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And that those who have been given knowledge may know that it is the truth from your Lord and [therefore] believe in it, and their hearts humbly submit to it. And indeed is Allah the Guide of those who have believed to a straight path.

This verse emphasizes that true knowledge and guidance lead to belief and submission to the truth. It is through this submission that our hearts become receptive to divine guidance, and our discernment is sharpened.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that true guidance is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a transformative journey that increases our discernment. When we seek true guidance, we open ourselves to the light of knowledge and wisdom, enabling us to see beyond the surface and perceive the deeper realities of life. This discernment allows us to make informed decisions, avoid pitfalls, and navigate the complexities of this world with clarity and righteousness.

By following the path of true guidance, we become more aware of our own shortcomings and the flaws in our thinking and actions. This self-awareness leads to self-improvement and a constant striving for excellence. It also enables us to recognize the signs of guidance in the world around us, as Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:69),

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.

Furthermore, the increase in discernment that comes with true guidance empowers us to distinguish between truth and falsehood, right and wrong, and to stand firmly on the path of righteousness. It protects us from falling into the traps of ignorance, deception, and misguided ideologies. It enables us to make choices that align with our values and principles, even in the face of adversity or societal pressures.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the profound impact of true guidance on our discernment. Through seeking and following true guidance, we enhance our ability to perceive and understand the realities of life, make sound judgments, and navigate the complexities of this world with wisdom and righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the blessings of true guidance and increase our discernment.