Hadith #6987

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.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he beautifully describes the qualities that a believer should possess. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith and explore its profound meanings in light of the Quran.

The Hadith begins with Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) stating,

The intellect is the close friend of a believer.

Here, the word (intellect) "عَقْلُ" refers to the faculty of reason and understanding that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) has bestowed upon human beings. It is through our intellect that we are able to comprehend the truth, differentiate between right and wrong, and make sound decisions. The intellect is described as the (close friend) "خَلِيلُ" of a believer, emphasizing its importance and close association with faith.

The Quran supports the significance of intellect in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, 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 role of intellect in recognizing the signs of Allah's creation and understanding His wisdom.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states,

Knowledge is his vizier.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْمُ" refers to the acquisition of information, understanding, and wisdom. It is through knowledge that a believer gains insight into the teachings of Islam and the guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Knowledge acts as a vizier, a trusted advisor, guiding the believer towards righteousness and helping them make informed decisions.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge in several verses. In Surah Al-Zumar, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 47:19)

So know, [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women. And Allah knows of your movement and your resting place.

This verse highlights the importance of knowledge in recognizing the oneness of Allah and seeking forgiveness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states,

Patience is the commander of his army.

The word (patience) "صَبْرُ" refers to the ability to endure hardships, trials, and tribulations with steadfastness and perseverance. Patience is described as the commander of the believer's army, highlighting its crucial role in overcoming challenges and maintaining steadfastness in the face of adversity.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the virtue of patience. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 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.

This verse highlights the reward and glad tidings for those who remain patient during times of difficulty.

Finally, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Action is his overseer.

The word (action) "عَمَلُ" refers to the deeds and actions performed by a believer. It is through righteous actions that a believer demonstrates their faith and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Action is described as the overseer, emphasizing its role in supervising and evaluating the believer's conduct.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of righteous actions. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 4:122)

But those who believe and do righteous deeds - We will admit them to gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide forever. It is the promise of Allah, [which is] truth, and who is more truthful than Allah in statement.

This verse highlights the connection between faith and righteous actions, and the promise of Paradise for those who combine belief with good deeds.

In conclusion, this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully encapsulates the qualities that a believer should possess. It emphasizes the importance of intellect, knowledge, patience, and righteous actions in the life of a Muslim. By cultivating these qualities, we can strengthen our faith, seek guidance from the Quran, and strive towards attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to embody these qualities and be steadfast in our journey of faith.