Hadith #7071

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights six situations that serve as tests for the intellects of individuals. These situations are: association, transaction, authority, isolation, affluence, and poverty. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of these words and explore their significance in light of the Quran.

1. Association (المُصاحَبَةُ): This refers to the company we keep and the people we surround ourselves with. Our intellects are tested by the influence and impact of those we associate with. The Quran emphasizes the importance of choosing righteous companions who will guide us towards goodness and righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (18:28),

And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His countenance.

2. Transaction (المُعامَلَةُ): This refers to our dealings and interactions with others, whether in business, personal relationships, or any other aspect of life. Our intellects are tested in how we conduct ourselves and uphold justice and fairness in our transactions. The Quran emphasizes honesty, integrity, and fulfilling our obligations in all our dealings. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188),

And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].

3. Authority (الوِلايَةُ): This refers to positions of power and leadership. Our intellects are tested when we are entrusted with authority, as it requires wisdom, justice, and responsibility. The Quran emphasizes the importance of just leadership and warns against the abuse of power. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah An-Nisa (4:58),

Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.

4. Isolation (العَزْلُ): This refers to moments of seclusion and solitude, where our intellects are tested in how we utilize our time and thoughts. The Quran encourages reflection and contemplation in moments of solitude. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mu'minun (23:80),

And it is He who gives life and causes death, and His is the alternation of the night and the day. Then will you not reason?

5. Affluence (الغِنى): This refers to wealth and material abundance. Our intellects are tested in how we use our wealth and whether we are grateful and generous or become arrogant and heedless. The Quran warns against the love of wealth and encourages charity and generosity. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Insan (76:9),

They give food, despite their love for it, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive.

6. Poverty (الفَقْرُ): This refers to a state of need and lack. Our intellects are tested in how we respond to poverty, whether with patience and reliance on Allah or with despair and dishonesty. The Quran teaches us to be content and patient in times of hardship. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:155),

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thoughtful words remind us that our intellects are constantly being tested in various aspects of life. It is through these tests that we have the opportunity to grow and develop our character. By seeking guidance from the Quran and following the examples set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt, we can navigate these tests with wisdom, righteousness, and steadfastness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to pass these tests and strengthen our intellects.