Hadith #2713

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 Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

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

The beauty of wisdom is kindness and good amicability.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this impactful saying in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. "Hikmah" refers to wisdom, which encompasses deep understanding, knowledge, and the ability to apply knowledge in a beneficial manner. "Rifq" means kindness, gentleness, and compassion. "Husn al-mudara" refers to good amicability, which entails maintaining harmonious relationships and treating others with respect and courtesy.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of wisdom and its connection to kindness and good amicability. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nahl (16:125),

Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.

This verse highlights the significance of using wisdom and kind words when conveying the message of Islam to others.

Furthermore, in Surah Luqman (31:17), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us,

And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

This verse reminds us to be humble and kind towards others, avoiding arrogance and treating people with respect and dignity.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the inseparable connection between wisdom and kindness. True wisdom is not merely about acquiring knowledge, but also about using that knowledge to benefit others and foster harmonious relationships. Wisdom without kindness can lead to arrogance and a lack of empathy, while kindness without wisdom may result in naivety and ineffective actions.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) exemplified this principle throughout his life. His profound knowledge and wisdom were always accompanied by his gentle and compassionate nature. He treated people with kindness, even in the face of adversity, and his amicable demeanor won the hearts of many. His wisdom guided him to make just decisions and resolve conflicts in a peaceful manner.

The consequences of embodying the beauty of wisdom, as described by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), are profound. When we approach others with kindness and good amicability, we create an atmosphere of love, understanding, and unity. Our words and actions have a positive impact on those around us, fostering a sense of belonging and harmony within the Muslim community and society at large.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of cultivating both wisdom and kindness in our lives. We should strive to acquire knowledge and understanding, while also nurturing a compassionate and gentle nature. By doing so, we can embody the true essence of Islam and contribute to the betterment of humanity.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to be kind and amicable, and may He bless us with the ability to benefit others through our actions and words.