Hadith #2837

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Forbearance (or wisdom) is light, [and] its essence is the intellect.

This beautiful Hadith highlights the importance of forbearance and wisdom in the life of a Muslim. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

The word (hilm) "حِلْمُ" in Arabic can be translated as forbearance, patience, or tolerance. It refers to the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity, to control one's anger, and to respond to challenging situations with wisdom and understanding. The word (hikmah) "حِكْمَةُ" can be translated as wisdom, which encompasses deep insight, understanding, and the ability to make sound judgments.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that forbearance or wisdom is light. This metaphorical expression highlights the illuminating nature of these qualities in a person's life. Just as light dispels darkness and guides us on the right path, forbearance and wisdom illuminate our hearts and minds, leading us towards righteousness and guidance.

The Hadith further states that the essence or core of forbearance or wisdom is the intellect, represented by the word (aql) "عَقْلُ". The intellect refers to the faculty of reasoning, understanding, and discernment. It is through the intellect that we are able to comprehend the true meaning of forbearance and wisdom, and apply them in our lives.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the importance of forbearance, wisdom, and intellect. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:159),

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

This verse highlights the importance of forbearance and leniency in dealing with others. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) demonstrated great forbearance and wisdom in his interactions with people, even in the face of adversity. By following his example, Muslims can foster unity and harmony within their communities.

Another verse that emphasizes the significance of wisdom and intellect is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good. And none will remember except those of understanding.

This verse highlights that wisdom is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and is bestowed upon those whom He chooses. It is a blessing that brings immense goodness to the individual and society. Those who possess wisdom are able to make informed decisions, offer valuable insights, and guide others towards righteousness.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that forbearance and wisdom are essential qualities for Muslims to cultivate. By practicing forbearance, we can maintain peace and harmony in our relationships, even in challenging situations. Wisdom enables us to make sound judgments and seek guidance from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in all aspects of our lives.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to embody forbearance and wisdom, and may He bless us with the intellect to understand and apply these qualities in our daily lives. Ameen.