Hadith #7005

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of two fundamental qualities that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) loves: the sound intellect (العَقْلَ القَويمَ) and the upright action (العَمَلَ المُسْتَقيمَ). To understand the depth and significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of these words and explore their implications in light of the Quran.

The term (the sound intellect) "العَقْلَ" refers to the ability to reason, comprehend, and make sound judgments. It encompasses wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has blessed humans with intellect as a means to distinguish right from wrong, to seek knowledge, and to make informed decisions. The sound intellect is a divine gift that enables us to comprehend the signs of Allah in the universe and to fulfill our purpose in life.

The Quran affirms the significance of the sound intellect in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 3:190)

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding

This verse highlights that the signs of Allah are meant to be pondered upon by those with a sound intellect. Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:82)

Do they not then reflect upon the Qur'an? If it had been from any other than Allah, they would have found therein much discrepancy

This verse emphasizes the importance of using our sound intellect to reflect upon the Quran and recognize its divine origin.

The term (the upright action) "العَمَلَ المُسْتَقيمَ" refers to righteous deeds that are performed with sincerity and in accordance with the teachings of Islam. It encompasses acts of worship, moral conduct, and fulfilling one's responsibilities towards Allah and fellow human beings. Upright actions are those that are free from any deviation or corruption and are in alignment with the divine guidance.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the significance of upright actions. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:43)

And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience]

This verse highlights the importance of performing the obligatory acts of worship, such as prayer and giving zakah, as part of our upright actions. Additionally, in Surah Al-Ma'idah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 5:1)

O you who have believed, fulfill [all] contracts

This verse emphasizes the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities and commitments, which are essential aspects of upright actions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the inseparable connection between the sound intellect and upright actions. A sound intellect enables us to understand the divine guidance and make informed choices, while upright actions are the manifestation of that understanding in our behavior and conduct. It is not enough to possess knowledge or have a sound intellect if it does not translate into righteous actions. Similarly, performing righteous actions without a sound intellect may lead to misguided or insincere deeds.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to strive for excellence in both their intellect and actions. It encourages us to seek knowledge, ponder upon the signs of Allah, and apply that knowledge in our daily lives. It reminds us that our actions should be guided by sincerity, adherence to the teachings of Islam, and a deep understanding of the purpose of our existence.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of the sound intellect and upright actions in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights the need for Muslims to cultivate both qualities and to strive for a harmonious balance between knowledge and practice. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to develop a sound intellect and engage in upright actions that are pleasing to Him.