Hadith #7063

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) beautifully encapsulates the essence of true intellect and wisdom. Let us delve into the exegesis of this thought-provoking Hadith, exploring its meanings and implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (intellect) "عَقْلِ" refers to the faculty of reason and understanding. It is the ability to discern between right and wrong, to comprehend the deeper meanings of things, and to make sound judgments. (separation) "اَلاِنْفِصالُ" signifies detachment or disengagement from something. (the perishing) "الفاني" refers to the transient and ephemeral aspects of this world, while (the everlasting) "الباقي" refers to the eternal and everlasting realm.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the temporary nature of this world and the importance of focusing on the eternal. In Surah Al-Hadid, Allah says, (57:20)

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.

This verse reminds us that the pleasures and attractions of this world are fleeting and transient. They may bring temporary joy and satisfaction, but they ultimately wither away, leaving us empty-handed. True intellect lies in recognizing the impermanence of worldly pursuits and seeking a deeper connection with the everlasting.

In Surah Al-Qasas, Allah narrates the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and his encounter with Pharaoh. When Musa confronted Pharaoh with the truth, Pharaoh arrogantly rejected it and claimed divinity for himself. In response, Musa said, (28:38-40)

Indeed, Pharaoh is exalted in the land and indeed, he is of the transgressors. And Moses said, 'O my people, if you have believed in Allah, then rely upon Him, if you should be Muslims.' So they said, 'Upon Allah do we rely. Our Lord, make us not [objects of] trial for the wrongdoing people. And save us by Your mercy from the disbelieving people.'

Here, Musa (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) demonstrates true intellect by recognizing the futility of relying on worldly power and instead placing his trust in Allah. He separates himself from the perishing, the false claims of Pharaoh, and attaches himself to the everlasting, the mercy and guidance of Allah.

Similarly, in Surah Al-Kahf, Allah tells the story of the people of the cave who sought refuge in a cave to escape persecution for their faith. Allah says, (18:16)

And when you withdraw from them and that which they worship other than Allah, retreat to the cave. Your Lord will spread out for you of His mercy and will prepare for you from your affair facility.

In this verse, the people of the cave demonstrate true intellect by separating themselves from the idolatrous society and seeking refuge in the cave. They detach themselves from the perishing, the false gods, and attach themselves to the everlasting, the mercy and protection of Allah.

The exegesis of this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true intellect lies in recognizing the temporary nature of worldly pursuits and attaching ourselves to the eternal. It urges us to detach ourselves from the distractions and illusions of this world and instead focus on building a lasting connection with Allah. By doing so, we can attain true wisdom, guidance, and fulfillment.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the understanding and ability to detach ourselves from the perishing and attach ourselves to the everlasting. May He bless us with true intellect and guide us on the path of righteousness.