Hadith #9864

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the qualities of an intelligent and wise ruler. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its important words and their meanings in light of the Quran.

The first important word in this Hadith is (the most intelligent) "أعْقَلُ". This word refers to the highest level of intellect and wisdom. It signifies a ruler who possesses deep understanding, discernment, and foresight. Such a ruler is not only knowledgeable but also possesses the ability to apply that knowledge effectively.

The second important word is (of kings) "مُلُوكِ". This word refers to those who hold positions of authority and leadership. It encompasses not only kings but also all those who are responsible for governing and leading others.

The third important word is (governs) "ساسَ". This word implies the act of managing and ruling. It signifies the responsibility of a ruler to establish a just and effective system of governance.

The fourth important word is (himself) "نَفْسَهُ". This word emphasizes the importance of self-governance for a ruler. It implies that a wise ruler must first govern and discipline himself before he can effectively govern others. This self-control and self-discipline are crucial for a ruler to make decisions that are in the best interest of the people.

The fifth important word is (the people) "الرَّعِيَّةِ". This word refers to the subjects or citizens under the rule of a leader. It emphasizes the responsibility of a ruler to prioritize the welfare and well-being of the people.

The sixth important word is (proof against him) "حُجَّتُها". This word signifies the arguments or evidence that can be presented against a ruler's actions or decisions. It implies that a wise ruler should govern in a way that removes any valid criticism or objections against him.

The seventh important word is (affirms) "تَثْبُتُ". This word signifies the act of establishing and confirming. It implies that a wise ruler should govern in a way that strengthens and affirms his legitimacy and authority over the people.

Now, let us turn to the Quran to find support for the exegesis of this Hadith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:247):

Their prophet said to them, 'Indeed, Allah has sent to you Saul as a king.' They said, 'How can he have kingship over us while we are more worthy of kingship than him and he has not been given any measure of wealth?' He said, 'Indeed, Allah has chosen him over you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature.' And Allah gives His sovereignty to whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing [in favor] and Knowing.

This verse highlights the importance of knowledge and wisdom in a ruler. Prophet Saul (as) was chosen by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to be a king because of his abundant knowledge and wisdom. Similarly, a wise ruler, as mentioned in the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), is one who governs himself and the people with wisdom and understanding.

Another verse that supports the exegesis of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80):

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's guidance and support in governance. A wise ruler is one who seeks Allah's assistance and relies on His sustaining power to govern effectively.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we can understand that a wise and intelligent ruler is one who governs himself with self-discipline and governs the people with justice and fairness. Such a ruler removes any valid criticism against himself by making decisions that are in the best interest of the people. At the same time, he strengthens his authority and legitimacy by governing in a way that affirms his proof and establishes his credibility.

This Hadith serves as a timeless reminder for all rulers and leaders, regardless of their positions and titles. It emphasizes the importance of self-governance, knowledge, wisdom, and justice in leadership. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to understand and implement the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in our lives and in our roles as leaders.