Hadith #2738

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Wisdom does not reside in a heart [that is filled] with lust.

This thought-provoking Hadith highlights the incompatibility between wisdom and the desires of the heart. Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (hikmah) "حِكْمَة" in Arabic refers to wisdom, understanding, and profound knowledge. It encompasses the ability to discern between right and wrong, to make sound judgments, and to act in accordance with divine guidance. Wisdom is a quality that is highly praised in the Quran, and it is mentioned in numerous verses.

One such verse is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great good.

This verse emphasizes that wisdom is a divine gift bestowed upon those whom Allah chooses. It is not something that can be acquired solely through worldly knowledge or intellectual pursuits.

The word (qalban) "قَلْباً" in the Hadith refers to the heart, which is the seat of emotions, desires, and intentions. The heart plays a crucial role in shaping our thoughts, actions, and character. It is through the heart that we experience love, compassion, and other noble qualities. However, the heart can also be susceptible to negative influences, such as lust, greed, and selfish desires.

The word (shahwah) "شَهْوَة" in the Hadith refers to lust or carnal desires. It encompasses the intense cravings and passions that can overpower the intellect and lead a person astray. Lust can manifest in various forms, including the pursuit of material possessions, power, and physical pleasures. When the heart is consumed by such desires, it becomes veiled from wisdom and unable to discern the truth.

The Quran repeatedly warns against the dangers of allowing desires to dominate our hearts and cloud our judgment. In Surah Al-Qasas (28:50), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) cautions,

But if they do not respond to you - then know that they only follow their [own] desires. And who is more astray than one who follows his desire without guidance from Allah?

This verse highlights the consequences of blindly following one's desires without seeking guidance from Allah. It leads to straying from the right path and losing touch with wisdom.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims of the importance of purifying the heart from impure desires and seeking wisdom from Allah. When the heart is free from the shackles of lust, it becomes receptive to divine guidance and is able to attain true wisdom. This wisdom enables individuals to make righteous choices, act with integrity, and fulfill their responsibilities towards Allah and humanity.

Moreover, the Hadith also highlights the need for self-reflection and self-control. Muslims are encouraged to constantly evaluate their intentions and desires, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Islam. By recognizing and restraining their base desires, individuals can cultivate a heart that is receptive to wisdom and guided by divine light.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the incompatibility between wisdom and a heart consumed by lust. It serves as a reminder to Muslims to purify their hearts from impure desires and seek wisdom from Allah. By doing so, they can attain true wisdom, make righteous choices, and lead a life that is pleasing to Allah. May Allah grant us the ability to purify our hearts and seek wisdom in all aspects of our lives.