Hadith #7229

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 pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The one who possesses intellect is not known except by [his] tolerance, temperance, and kindness.

This impactful saying emphasizes the importance of these qualities in a person who is truly wise and intelligent.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. Firstly, "tolerance" refers to the ability to endure and bear hardships, difficulties, and the actions of others with patience and forbearance. It is the quality of remaining calm and composed in the face of adversity. Secondly, "temperance" refers to moderation and self-restraint. It is the ability to control one's desires and impulses, avoiding excess and extremes. Lastly, "kindness" refers to showing compassion, empathy, and benevolence towards others. It is the act of being gentle, considerate, and generous in one's interactions with fellow human beings.

To understand the significance of these qualities, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:134),

Those who spend [in Allah's cause] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

This verse highlights the importance of tolerance, temperance, and kindness. It encourages believers to control their anger, forgive others, and exhibit generosity even in times of difficulty.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Furqan (25:63), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the servants of the Most Merciful as those who

walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace.

This verse exemplifies the quality of tolerance, as it encourages believers to respond to ignorance and harshness with peace and tranquility.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true intellect is not merely measured by knowledge or intelligence, but rather by the possession of these noble qualities. A person who possesses intellect is one who can endure hardships with patience, exercise self-control in all aspects of life, and treat others with kindness and compassion.

By embodying these qualities, individuals can create a harmonious and peaceful society. Tolerance allows for the acceptance of diverse opinions and beliefs, temperance prevents the extremes of excess and deficiency, and kindness fosters a sense of unity and empathy among people.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the importance of tolerance, temperance, and kindness in our lives. These qualities are not only praised in the Islamic tradition but are also emphasized in the Quran. By embodying these virtues, we can strive to become individuals who are truly wise, intelligent, and beloved by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to cultivate these qualities within ourselves and may He guide us on the path of righteousness.