Hadith #9603

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

لايَثُوبُ العَقْلُ مَعَ اللَّعْبِ۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

Intellect [and wisdom] and idle play do not go together.

To understand the essence of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words and their implications. The word (aql) "عَقْلُ" refers to intellect or wisdom, which is a divine gift bestowed upon humans. It is the ability to reason, understand, and make sound judgments. (al-la'b) "اللَّعْبِ" refers to idle play or frivolous activities that divert one's attention from serious matters.

This Hadith emphasizes the incompatibility between the pursuit of knowledge and engaging in idle play. It highlights the importance of utilizing one's intellect in a purposeful and meaningful manner, rather than wasting it on trivial pursuits. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging Muslims to prioritize the cultivation of their intellect and wisdom, as it is a means to attain spiritual growth and success in this world and the Hereafter.

The Quranic verses provide further insight into the significance of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Jumu'ah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says: (Quran 62:11)

And when they saw a transaction or a diversion, [O Muhammad], they rushed to it and left you standing. Say, 'What is with Allah is better than diversion and than a than a transaction, and Allah is the best of providers.'

This verse highlights the tendency of some people to prioritize worldly distractions over the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. It reminds Muslims that the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of intellect are far superior to indulging in idle play or trivial pursuits. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes that what He has to offer is far greater than any worldly diversion or transaction.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-An'am, where 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 the importance of using one's intellect to reflect upon the signs of Allah's creation. It encourages Muslims to ponder over the natural phenomena around them and seek knowledge and wisdom from these signs. By doing so, they can deepen their understanding of the world and strengthen their relationship with their Creator.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of intellect should be prioritized over idle play and trivial pursuits. Engaging in activities that enhance our understanding and wisdom is not only beneficial for our personal growth but also for the betterment of society as a whole.

By dedicating our time and energy to seeking knowledge, reflecting upon the signs of Allah's creation, and engaging in meaningful pursuits, we can elevate ourselves intellectually and spiritually. This Hadith encourages us to be mindful of how we spend our time and to ensure that our actions align with the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.

May Allah (تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to prioritize the pursuit of knowledge and to use our intellect in a manner that is pleasing to Him. May we strive to engage in activities that enhance our understanding and contribute positively to society. And may we always seek guidance from the teachings of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Ahl al-Bayt in our quest for knowledge and wisdom.