Hadith #9750

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.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Man marra al-safiyah, falaa 'aqla lahu.

This can be translated as,

One who disputes with a fool has no intelligence.

Let us delve into the profound wisdom contained within this statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

Firstly, it is important to understand the key words in this Hadith. The term "safiyah" refers to a fool or an ignorant person. It is derived from the root word "safa," which means to be void of understanding or wisdom. The word "aql" translates to intelligence or intellect. Thus, the Hadith emphasizes that engaging in arguments or disputes with individuals lacking wisdom is an indication of a lack of intelligence.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the guidance provided in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly encourages believers to engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue, while also cautioning against futile arguments and disputes. In Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 46, Allah says,

And do not argue with the People of the Scripture except in a way that is best, except for those who commit injustice among them, and say, 'We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you. And our God and your God is one; and we are Muslims [in submission] to Him.'

This verse highlights the importance of engaging in discussions with people of different beliefs in a respectful and wise manner. However, it also advises against arguing with those who commit injustice or lack the capacity for rational discourse. Engaging in futile arguments with such individuals can lead to a waste of time, energy, and resources, without yielding any productive outcomes.

Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom. In Surah Al-Zumar, verse 9, Allah says,

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who lack it. Engaging in disputes with individuals who lack wisdom can be counterproductive and may lead to the erosion of one's own intelligence.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to be discerning in their interactions and to prioritize meaningful discussions over futile arguments. It encourages believers to use their intellect and wisdom to engage in fruitful conversations that promote understanding and unity, rather than wasting their time and energy on disputes with individuals who lack the capacity for rational discourse.

By refraining from engaging in arguments with fools, Muslims can focus their efforts on seeking knowledge, promoting justice, and contributing positively to society. This approach aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of wisdom, knowledge, and constructive dialogue.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a valuable reminder for Muslims to exercise wisdom and intelligence in their interactions. It encourages believers to prioritize meaningful discussions and avoid futile arguments with individuals lacking wisdom. By adhering to this guidance, Muslims can contribute to a more harmonious and productive society, in line with the teachings of the Quran. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to engage in fruitful conversations and the ability to seek knowledge that benefits ourselves and others.