Hadith #3139

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) states,

ما كانَ الخُرْقُ في شَيْء إلاّ شانَهُ۔

which translates to

Ineptness is not in anything but that it tarnishes it.

This thought-provoking Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the negative impact of incompetence and lack of skill in any matter.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. The word (ineptness) "خُرْقُ" refers to the lack of proficiency or incompetence in performing a task or fulfilling a responsibility. It signifies a deficiency in knowledge, skills, or abilities. The term (anything) "شَيْء" encompasses all aspects of life, including personal, social, and religious matters. And finally, (tarnishes) "شانَهُ" implies that ineptness has a detrimental effect on the object or situation it is associated with, causing it to lose its value or effectiveness.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of competence and proficiency in various aspects of life. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 26, Allah says, (Quran 28:26)

And he entered the city at a time of inattention by its people and found therein two men fighting: one from his faction and one from among his enemy. And the one from his faction called for help to him against the one from his enemy, so Moses struck him and [unintentionally] killed him. [Moses] said, 'This is from the work of Satan. Indeed, he is a manifest, misleading enemy.'

This verse highlights the consequences of ineptness and lack of control over one's actions. Prophet Moses (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) unintentionally caused harm due to a momentary lapse in judgment. It serves as a reminder that even a small act of incompetence can have severe consequences.

In another verse, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises us to seek knowledge and strive for excellence. In Surah Al-Mujadila, verse 11, Allah says, (Quran 58:11)

O you who have believed, when you are told, 'Space yourselves' in assemblies, then make space; Allah will make space for you. And when you are told, 'Arise,' then arise; Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees. And Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge and expertise in order to excel in our endeavors. It highlights that those who possess knowledge and competence will be elevated in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that ineptness not only hinders our own progress but also negatively impacts the outcomes and results of our actions. It tarnishes the quality and effectiveness of our efforts, leading to suboptimal outcomes and potential harm to ourselves and others.

Therefore, as Muslims, we are encouraged to continuously seek knowledge, develop our skills, and strive for excellence in all aspects of our lives. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of ineptness and ensure that our actions are beneficial, productive, and in line with the teachings of Islam.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom, knowledge, and competence to excel in our endeavors and may He protect us from the negative consequences of ineptness.