Following the Sunnah and Evidence from the Book

http://www.hubeali.com/asool-e-deen/22Chapter-Followinfthesunnah.pdf

Kind of People

Tradition 3.1 H 53, Ch. 3, h 1

Ali ibn Muhammad from Sahl ibn Ziyad and Muhammad ibn Yahya from Ahmad ibn Muhammad

ibn ‘Isa all from ibn Mahbub from abu ’Usama from Hisham ibn Salim from abu Hamza from

abu Ishaq al-Sabay‘i from one who narrated it from a reliable source from Imam Alia.s who has

said the following:

“After Holy Prophets.a.w.w, people started following three kinds of people as their ‘wali’

(master). One group went to a divinely well-guided scholar. Allahswt had given him such

a high degree of knowledge, which made him eloquently independent of the knowledge

of the others. The second group was the ignorant one, who claimed to have knowledge

but in fact they had no knowledge. This was an egoistic group. The worldly attractions

had made them to lose sight of the truth and they did the same to their followers. The

third group consisted of those people who learned from a divinely guided scholar who

taught them for the sake of Allahswt and for their salvation. It then was obvious that those

who claimed (to be scholars while, in fact, they were not scholars) and those who forged

certain matters falsely were destroyed.”

 

Tradition 3.2 H 54, Ch. 3, h 2

Al-Husayn ibn Muhammad al-Ash’ari has narrated from Mu‘alla ibn Muhammad from al-Hassan

ibn Ali al-Washsha’ from Ahmad ibn ‘A’idh from abu Khadija Salim ibn Mukram from Abu

‘Abdallaha.s who has said the following:

“People are of three kinds: The scholars, the learning group and the garbled ones.”

 

Tradition 3.3 H 55, Ch. 3, h 3

Muhammad ibn Yahya has narrated from ‘Abdallah ibn Muhammad from Ali ibn al-Hakam from

al-‘Ala’ ibn Razin from Muhammad ibn Muslim from abu Hamza al-Thumali who has said the

following:

“Abu ‘Abdallaha.s said this, “Be a scholar or a learning person or love the scholars. Do

not become of the fourth type lest you will be destroyed by their hatred.’”

Tradition 3.4 H 56, Ch. 3, h 4

Ali ibn Ibrahim has narrated from Muhammad ibn ‘Isa from Yunus from Jamil who has

said the following:

“I heard Imam Abu ‘Abdallaha.s saying, ‘People become of three groups: Scholars, those

who learn and confused ones. We are the scholars. Our followers are the ones who

learn. The rest of the people are chaotic ones.’”

Quality of knowledge its virtue and the virtue of the scholars

1

Chapter Two

Quality of knowledge its virtue and the virtue of the scholars

Tradition 2.1

Muhammad ibn al-Hassan has narrated from Ali ibn Muhammad from Sahl ibn Ziyad

from Muhammad ibn ‘Isa from ‘Ubaudallah al-Dihqan from Durust al-Wasiti from Ibrahim

ibn ‘Abd al-Hamid from abu al-Hassan Musaa.s who has said the following:

“Once the Holy Prophets.a.w.w entered the Mosque and found a group of people gathered

around a man. He asked, “who is he?” It was said that he was a ‘allamah’. Prophets.a.w.w

then enquired, “What does that mean?” They replied that he is the most learned man

about the genealogy, the chronology, and the history of the pre-Islamic days of darkness

and the poetry of Arabs. Prophets.a.w.w said, for this kind of knowledge there is no harm in

not learning it or benefit in acquiring it. ‘The holy Prophets.a.w.w then explained those

people that “Knowledge consists of only three kinds: A strong sign, a justly enjoined

obligation and an established tradition. Other then these are of the extra achievements.”’

Tradition 2.2 (H 45, Ch. 2, h 2)

Muhammad ibn Yahya has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Isa from Muhammad ibn

Khalid from abu al-Bakhtari from Abu ‘Abdallahas who has said the following:

“The scholars are the heirs of the prophets because the prophets did not leave any

Dirham or Dinar, (units of money) as their legacy. What they left was certain pieces of

their statements. Those who acquired a fraction of the knowledge of their statements,

certainly have accumulated a large share. However, you must be very careful, when

acquiring such knowledge, and judge the teachers of this knowledge. Among us (the

Ahlul Baytas, family of the holy Prophets.a.w.w) after every one there comes a just person

(masoomas) who removes (and exposes) the forgeries of the exaggerators from it

2

(Knowledge), the infiltrated materials of the fallacious ones and the interpretations of the

ignorant ones.”

Tradition 2.3 H 46, Ch. 2, h 3

Al-Hassan ibn Muhammad has narrated from Mu‘alla ibn Muhammad from al-Hassan ibn Ali al-

Washsha’ from Hammad ibn ‘Uthman from Abu ‘Abdallahas who has said the following:

“When Allahswt wants to bless a person He gives him good understanding of religion.”

Tradition 2.4 H 47, Ch. 2, h 4

Muhammad ibn ’Isma‘il has narrated from Fadl ibn Shadhan from Hammad ibn ‘Isa from Rab‘i

ibn ‘Abdallah from a man from Abu Ja‘faras who has said the following:

“The entirety of excellence and perfection in (knowledge) is; (a), good understanding of

religion, (b) exercise of patience in affliction and (c) setting up of means of living.”

Tradition 2.5 H 48, Ch. 2, h 5

Muhammad ibn Yahya has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Isa from Muhammad ibn

Sinan from ’Isma‘il ibn Jabir from Abu ‘Abdallahas who has said the following:

“The scholars are trust worthy people, the pious ones are the strongholds and the

successors (of the holy Prophetsaww) are the leaders (Masomeenas).” In another Hadith it is

said, “The scholars are the light houses, the pious people are the strongholds and the

successors (of the holy Prophetsaww) are the leaders (Masomeenas).”

3

Tradition 2.6 H 49, Ch. 2, h 6

Ahmad ibn Idris has narrated from Muhammad ibn Hassa’n from Idris ibn al-Hassan from abu

Ishaq al-Kindi from Bashir al-Dahhan from Abu ‘Abdallahas who has said the following:

“O Bashir, there is nothing good in those of our people who do not acquire (Fiqh) good

understand of religion. If one of them does not has a good understanding of the religion

he would need to ask from those who oppose us. When he would do so, they will lead

him into their straying ways in a manner that he would not even realize.”

Tradition 2.7 H 50, Ch. 2, h 7

Ali ibn Muhammad has narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad from al-Nawfali from al-Sakuni from Abu

‘Abdallahas who has narrated from his ancestors from the Holy Prophet (s.a.), who has

said the following:

“There is nothing good in life except for two kinds of people: the one who listen and acts

accordingly and the one who listens carefully and remembers it by heart.”

Tradition 2.8 H 51, Ch. 2, h 8

Ali ibn Ibrahim has narrated from his father from ibn abu ‘Umayr and Muhammad ibn Yahya

from Ahmad ibn Muhammad from ibn abu ‘Umayr from Sayf ibn ‘Umayr from abu Hamza from

Abu Ja‘faras who has said the following:

“A scholar who benefits from his knowledge (by practising it) is better than seventy

thousand worshippers.”

4

Tradition 2.9 H 52, Ch. 2, h 9

Al-Hassan ibn Muhammad has narrated from Ahmad ibn Ishaq from Sa‘dan ibn Muslim from

Mu‘awiya ibn ‘Ammar who has said the following:

“I asked (Imam) Abu ‘Abdallahas, “There is a man who recounts your Hadith and spreads

them among people and helps your followers to correct their beliefs. In comparision,

there is a worshipper among your followers who does not narrate your Hadith. Who is

better than the other one?” The Imamas replied, “The one who narrates our Hadith and

helps our followers in correcting their beliefs, is better than seventy thousand

worshippers.”

————————————————————————————————————

All praise belongs to Allahswt May Allahswt send peace and blessings upon

Hazrat Muhammadsaww and his holy progeny.

The Issues of Wisdom and Ignorance

Chapter One

The Issues of Wisdom and Ignorance

Tradition 1.1

Abu Ja’far Muhammad ibn Ya’qub has narrated from a number of our people of whom one is

Muhammad ibn Yahya al-‘Attar who narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad from Hassan ibn

Mahbub from ‘Ala’ ibn Razin from Muhammad ibn Muslim from Abu Ja’fara.s who has said the

following.

“When Allahswt, created wisdom, He gave it an ability to speak and then He asked to it,

‘Come forward’. It came forward. He then said, “Go back.” It went back.

Then Allahswt said, “I swear by My honour and glory that I have not created any creature

more beloved to Me than you. I will not perfect you in anyone except those whom I love. I

will command only you to do things and prohibit only you from doing certain things. I

will award blessings (rewards) to you only and will subject only you to punishments.”

Tradition 1.2

Ali ibn Muhammad has narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad, from ‘Amr ibn ‘Uthman, from Mufaddal ibn

Salih from Sa‘d ibn Tarif from Asbagh ibn Nabatah, from Imam Alia.s who has said the

following:

“Once Jibreela.s came to Adama.s and said, ‘I have been ordered to offer you three

choices; you may chose one and return the other two. Adama.s then asked, “What are

those three things?”

Jibreela.s replied, ‘They are wisdom, bashfulness (modesty) and faith.’

Adama.s then said, “I would like to keep the wisdom”. Jibreela.s asked modesty and faith

to go away and leave the wisdom with Adama.s. They both replied to Jibreela.s, ‘O Jibreel,

we have been commanded (by Allahswt) to remain with wisdom wherever it may exist.

Jibreela.s responded to them, “I leave it up to your discretion!” He then ascended to the

heavens.

Tradition 1.3

Ahmad ibn ‘Idris has narrated from Muhammad ibn ‘Abd al-Jabbar, from certain persons of our

people in a Marfu’ manner, who have ascribed it to Abu ‘Abdullahas who has said the

following:

The narrator has said, “I asked Abu ‘Abdullaha.s, “What is wisdom?” Imamas replied, ‘It is

an entity which helps one to worship the most Merciful (Allahswt) and to earn a place in

paradise.’ I asked again, “How about Mu’awiyahl.a?” ‘He was devious, one should run

away from that Mischief!’ The Imamas explained.

Tradition 1.4

Muhammad ibn Yahya has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Isa from ibn Faddal from

al-Hassan ibn al-Jahm who has said the following:

“I heard (Imam) al-Ridaas saying, ” Wisdom is friend of a person and ignorance is his

enemy.”

Tradition 1.5

It is narrated from him from Ahmad ibn Muhammad from ibn Faddal from al-Hassan ibn al-

Juham who has said the following:

“I said to Abu al-Hassanas, “We know a certain group of people who claim to have

extreme love for you but they lack devotion.” The Imamas replied, “They are not among

those who have been admonished by Allahswt. Allahswt has addressed to the people of

wisdom and understanding to follow His guidance.”

Tradition 1.6

Ahmad ibn Idris has narrated from Muhammad ibn Hassa’n from abu Muhammad al-Razi from

Sayf ibn ‘Umayra from Ishaq ibn ‘Ammar from Abu ‘Abdullah (a.s) who has said the following.

“One who has wisdom, he possess the real ‘Aman’ and he will enter into the Paradise.”

Tradition 1.7

A number of our people has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Khalid from al-Hassan

ibn Ali ibn Yaqtin from Muhammad ibn Sinan ibn abu al-Jarud from Abu Ja‘faras who has said

the following.

” On the Day of Judgment, Allahswt will hold everyone accountable according to the

degree of their wisdom which they held in their lives.”

Tradition 1.8

Ali ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Abdullah has narrated from Ibrahim ibn Ishaq al-Ahmar from

Muhammad ibn Sulayman al-Daylami his father who has said the following.

“Once I presented to Imam Abu ‘Abdullahas , a certain person’s worship practices and

spiritual affairs. The Imamas enquired about his wisdom and I replied, ‘I do not know.’

Imamas then explained, “The degree of the reward is based on the level of wisdom. A

man of Bani Israel worshipped Allahswt on an island in the ocean. The island was lush

green, with many trees and abundant water. Once, an angel passed by the worshipper

and prayed to Allahswt to show him the rewards and blessings of the worshipper.

Allahswt showed the achievements of the worshipper but the angel considered them very

little. Allahswt then told the angel to find out himself by spending some time with the

worshipper.

The angel approached to the worshipper in the form of human being. The worshipper

asked, “Who are you?” The angel replied, I am a worshipper like you and have been

inspired by your excellent worshiping practices at this place and I wish to join you to

worship Allahswt. The angel spent that day with the worshipper and the next day the

angel asked from the worshipper, “Your place is beautiful and it should only be used for

worship.” ‘Indeed, it is so but it has one shortcoming.’ The worshipper responded.

“What is that?” The angel inquired. “Our Lord does not have an animal. If our Lord had a

donkey we would look after and offer all the grass around to graze. And the grass and

vegetation would not turn into waste.” Allahswt then revealed to the angel, “We reward

everyone according to their degree of wisdom.”

Tradition 1.9

Ali ibn Ibrahim has narrated from his father from al-Nawfali from al-Sakuni from abu

‘Abdullahas who has said the following.

“The holy Prophet of Allahsaww said, “If you hear about the worship practices of a man,

you should look at his intelligence, as he will be rewarded according to his wisdom.”

Tradition 1.10

Muhammad ibn Yahya has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad from ibn Mahbub from

‘Abdullah ibn Sinan who has said the following.

“I presented to Imam Abu ‘Abdullahas the affairs of a person who I considered to be a

wise man but would doubt the status of his Wudu and salat.” The Imamas then said,

‘What kind of intelligence is it that allows him to obey Satan.’ I then asked the Imamas,

“How would he be obeying Satan?” The Imamas replied, “Ask him wherefrom these

doubts originate? He will certainly admit, “They come from Satan.”

Tradition 1.11

A number of our people has narrated Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Khalid from certain persons of

his people in a marfu‘ manner from the Holy Prophetas who has said the following.

“Allahswt has not distributed among His people anything superior than the wisdom. The

sleep of a wise person is better than the worship of an ignorant person for the whole

night. A wise person’s stay at home is better than the journey of an ignorant person in

search for success and good deeds. Allahswt did not sent any prophet or messenger

prior to completion of his intelligence and making it superior to the wisdom of all of

those who would follow him. Whatever a prophet preserves in his soul is better than the

achievement of all the striving people for virtue and good deeds. People would not fulfil

their obligations to Allah Allahswt without having an understanding about Himswt. All the

worshippers will not be able to achieve with the virtue of their worships what a person of

wisdom achieves. It is the people of intelligence who are considered as people of proper

understanding in chapter 2:269 of the holy Quran, “Only People of understanding would

realise this.”

Tradition 1.12

Abu ‘Abdullah al-Ash‘ari has narrated from certain persons of our people have narrated in a

marfu‘ manner from Hisham ibn al-Hakam who has said the following.

“Abu al-Hassan Musa ibn Ja’far as stated the following to me. ‘O Hisham, in His book,

Allahswt has given good news to the people of intellect who rely on rational thinking, in

the following words, ” Give the good news to My those servants who carefully listen to

my commands and perform good deeds. These are the ones whom Allahswt has given

guidance and they are the people of understanding. 39:20 Holy Quran

“O Hisham, Allahswt has surely introduced ‘His Hujjat’ (His divine Prophets and Imams)

to His people through wisdom and supported His messengers a.s through His divine

guidance and provided them with divine proofs to His Lordship. Saying, “Your Lord is

the only Lord. There is no God but Allahswt, the most Beneficent and the Merciful (2:163)

“(Of the signs of His existence are the creations of heavens and earth, the alternation of

nights and days, the ships that sail in the sea for the benefit of the people. (Also of such

signs are) the water that God sends from the sky to revive the dead earth where He has

scattered all kinds of animals, the winds of all directions and the clouds that are

rendered for service between the sky and the earth. Such are the evidence (of His

existence) for those who use their wisdom. (2:164)

“O Hisham, Allahswt has mentioned the above facts as proof of His existence and that

such facts depend upon the will of one who has designed them saying:

“God has made the day and the night, the sun and the moon, and all the stars

subservient to you by His command. In this there is evidence of the truth for people of

understanding. (16:12)

“It is He, Who created you from clay, turning it into a living germ, then into a clot of

blood, and then brings you forth as a child. He then made you grow into manhood and

turned you old. He causes some of you to live for the appointed time and some of you to

die prior to that. He has revealed His signs so that you may have understanding (40:67).

“In the heavens and the earth there is an evidence (of the Truth) for the believers (45:3).

In your creation and in that of the beasts living on earth, there is evidence of the Truth

for those who have strong faith (45:4). In the alternation of the night and the day, the

sustenance that God has sent down from the sky to revive the barren earth, and in the

changing of the direction of the winds, there is evidence of the truth for the people of

understanding (45:5).

“Know that God brings the dead earth back to life. We have explained Our revelations to

you so that you may develop Our recognition (57:17).

“In the earth there are adjacent pieces of land, vineyards, farms, date-palms of single

and many roots which are all irrigated by the same water. However, We have made some

fruits taste better than the others. All this is an evidence (of the existence of God) for the

people who understand. (13:4)

“Also, one of signs of His existence (Allahswt) shows in the lightening which gives you

the feeling of the fear and the hope and the water that is sent down from the skies which

revives the earth after it had become infertile. In this, there is evidence (of the truth) for

the people of understanding. (30:24).

“(Muhammada.s), say, “Let me tell you about what your Lord has commanded: Do not

consider anything equal to God; Be kind to your parents; Do not murder your children

out of fear of poverty, as We provide sustenance to you as well as to them. Do not even

approach indecency either in public or in private. Do not take life, which God has made

sacred except by way of justice and law. Thus, He guides you through His commands so

that you may become wise. (6:151)

“God has told you this parable about yourselves: Do your slaves share your wealth

equally with you and do you fear for their shares in the similar way you do for

yourselves? We clarify the evidence (of the truth) for the people of understanding

(30:28).

“O Hisham, Allahswt then has blessed the people of intelligence by encouraging them to

become interested in the life hereafter, through informing them “The worldly life is but

useless amusement and sport (compared to) the life hereafter which is far better and is

only for the pious. Will you not then understand? (6:32)

“O Hisham, Allahswt then has given warnings to those who do not think about the

punishment that may come upon them from Allahswt by warning them as “Then, We

totally destroyed the others (37:136). You pass by (their ruined town) in the morning and

at night (37:137). Will you then not understand? (37:138)

“We will bring torment from the sky on this town because of the evil-deeds of its

inhabitants” (29:34). We left manifest evidence (of the truth) there for the people of

understanding. (29:35)

“O Hisham, intelligence comes with knowledge.” Allahswt has said, “These are parables

which, We tell to human beings, but only the learned ones would understand them.

(29:43)

“O Hisham, Allahswt has then expressed dislike towards those who do not understand in

the following words: “When certain people are asked to follow the revelations of God,

they say, ‘We would rather follow what our fathers have followed,’ even though their

fathers had no understanding and could not find the true guidance (2:170)

“Preaching to unbelievers is like talking to someone who cannot hear anything except

yells and shouts. They are deaf, dumb, and blind; they have no understanding. (2:171)

“Some of them will look at you, but are you supposed to guide the blind even if they

have no vision? (10:43)

“Do you think that most of them listen and understand? They are like cattle or even

worse, straying and confused. (25:44)

“They will not fight with you in a unified manner except with the protection of fortified

towns or from behind walls. They are strong among themselves. You think that they are

united, but in fact, their hearts are divided. They are a people who have no

understanding (59:14)

“Would you people order others to do good deeds and do not practise those yourselves;

even though you read the Book? Why do you not think?” (2:44)

“O Hisham, Allahswt then has expressed dislike towards the majority saying, “Most of the

people in the land will lead you away from God’s guidance if you follow them; they only

follow their own speculation and preach falsehood (6:116)

“If you ask them, “Who has created the heavens and the earth,” they will certainly say,

“God has created them.” Say, “It is only God who deserves all praise, but most of them

do not know” (31:25)

“If you ask them, “Who has sent down water from the sky to revive the dead earth?”

They will say, “God has done it.” Say, “It is only God who deserves all praise, but many

of them do not understand.” (29:63)

“O Hisham, Allahswt then has praised those fewer in numbers saying, “Only few of my

servants are grateful.” (34:13)

He has said, “How few are they?”

“A believing person from the people of the Pharaoh who concealed his faith said,

“Would you kill a man just because he says God is my Lord?” (40:28)

“No one believed in him, except a few. (11:40)

Tell them, (Muhammadsaww Allahswt), “God certainly has the Power to show such miracles

but many of them are ignorant.” (6:37).

“Many of them have no understanding. (5:103)

Many of them do not realize.”

“O Hisham, Allahswt has mentioned the people of intelligence in the best manners with

the best of characteristics saying, “God gives wisdom to the ones whom He wants.

Whoever is given wisdom, has, certainly, received much good. Only people of

intelligence can grasp this (2:269).

“Those who have a firm foundation in knowledge say, “We believe in it. All its verses are

from our Lord.” No one can grasp this fact except the people of Intelligence.” (3:7)

“The creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the day and the night

are evidence (of the existence of God) for people of Intelligence. (3:190)

“Can a person, who knows that what is revealed to you from your Lord is the truth, be

considered equal to a blind person? Only those who have understanding take heed “

(13:19).

“Can this person be considered equal to the one who worships God during the night,

prostrating and standing, who has fear of the Day of Judgment, and who has hope in the

mercy of his Lord? Say, “Are those who know equal to those who do not know? Only the

people of Intelligence take heed” (39:9).

“It is a blessed Book which We have revealed for you so that you will reflect upon its

verses and so the people of understanding will take heed” (38:29).

“To Mosesas We had given guidance and to the children of Israel We had given the Book

(40:53) as their inheritance and as a guide and a reminder to the people of

understanding” (40:54)

“Keep on reminding them. This benefits the believers” (51:55).

“O Hisham, Allahswt says in His book, “This is a reminder for the ones who understand,

listen, and perceive.” (50:37). It means intelligence.

“We gave wisdom to Luqman so that he would be thankful to Allahswt ” (31:12), as

understand is intelligence.

“O Hisham, Luqman said to his son, ” Admire the truth then you will be the most

intelligent among man. Indeed, Allahswt considers wise ones to be very few. My son, the

world is like a very deep ocean in which many people have drowned. So if you want to

succeed in this chaotic world, You must consider your ship as faith and piety before

Allahswt, complete reliance in Allahswt as you sail, use intelligence as your captain,

knowledge as the guide and patience as your passengers.”

“O Hisham, for everything there is an evidence. The proof of wisdom is in deep thinking.

The proof of thinking is in silence. For everything there is a facilitator, the facilitator of

wisdom is the humble attitude; the rudeness and show off would spoil one’s wisdom.

And it is enough to prove one’s ignorance by disobeying the prohibition of Allahswt.

“O Hisham, Allahswt sent His messengers to people for no other reason but to teaching

them His attributes. Those (among masses) who obey Him carefully would develop

better understanding about Him. Those who are more knowledgeable in the

commandments of Allahswt are the ones who have more appreciable intelligence and

those who have considerably more intelligence are at a higher degree of excellence in

this world as well as in the hereafter.

“O Hisham, Allahswt has placed two kinds of authority over man:

The apparent and manifest authority as well as the internal and hidden authority. The

prophets and messengers are the apparent and manifest authorities and intelligence is

the hidden and internal authority.

“O Hisham, a wise person is the one whose thankfulness does not diminish even when

wealth become abundant and excess of corruption opportunities does not overcome his

patience.

“O Hisham, one who would support three things against an other three kinds of things

he would be leading to the destruction of his own wisdom.

(1) Darkening of one’s ability to think with daydreaming, (2) the abolishment of the

sparks of one’s wisdom with excessive bluffs and (3) the extinguishing of the lights of

the lessons from experience by the desires of one’s soul.

It would be like supporting ones desire to destroy one’s own intelligence. One who

would destroy his own intelligence is the one who has destroyed his own worldly life as

well as the life hereafter.

“O Hisham how would you expect to have pure deeds before Allahswt when you are

distracted by the affairs that keep you away from the bounties of Allahswt, and you end

up obeying your own desires while ignoring your wisdom.

“O Hisham, maintaining patience in the time of loneliness is a strong sign of wisdom.

One who has understanding about Allahswt he keeps himself aside from the people of

this world and those interested in it. He becomes interested in what pleases Allahswt.

Allahswt then gives him comfort in his time of anxiety and provides him company in his

time of solitude. Allahswt provides him riches in his poverty and honour in the absence of

his tribesmen.

“O Hisham, truth is set up so that Allahswt is obeyed. There is no salvation without

obedience to Allahswt. Obedience comes only from knowledge, which comes from

learning that further reinforce by intelligence. The only knowledge of value is that of one

who knows about the Lord and intelligence recognises the valuable of knowledge.

“O Hisham, smaller degrees of deeds with knowledge are accepted with double rewards

whereas large amounts of deeds from those who follow their desires and ignorance are

rejected.

“O Hisham, a person of intelligence pleases even with little things of the world when

gifted with wisdom but he does not content with a little wisdom when given all of the

wealth and subsistence and, thus, such people strike a gainful bargain.

“O Hisham, the people of intelligence stay away from what is more than the basic

necessities of life how then they would not stay away from the sins in this world. To stay

away from what is more than the bare necessities is only extra virtue but staying away

from sins is obligatory.

“O Hisham, a man of wisdom observes the world and its inhabitants and finds out that

the worldly gains only come through strenuous efforts and labour. He also finds out

that the same hard work is required for the bounties of the hereafter and he then

chooses the one that is eternal.

“O Hisham, people of intelligence hold themselves back from indulging into the worldly

affairs and instead strengthen interest in the gains of the hereafter. They have learned

that the worldly gains need to be desired and perused and also are the benefits of the

hereafter. One who seeks the gains of the life hereafter, the world would track him in

order to deliver his livelihood. However, the one who seeks the worldly gains, the

hereafter would also chase him. Death will then approach him and it will destroy his

world and leave him with no opportunity in the life hereafter (as he had lost all in the

world).

“O Hisham, one who wants self-sufficiency without endless desires, peace of mind from

the evil of jealousy and the shelter for his religion, he should pray to Allah, the Most

Glorious, to perfect his intelligence. The person of intelligence is content with the basic

necessities and the one who lives a simple life becomes self-sufficient and free of needs

but the one who remains unsatisfied with basic necessities will never be free his desires.

“O Hisham, Allahswt has stated the following on behalf of the people of virtue, “They say,

“Lord, do not cause our hearts to deviate from Your guidance, and grant us mercy. You

are the Most Awarding One.” (3:8) They know that hearts may deviate and turn towards

blindness and destruction.

It is certain that those who do not fear Allahswt do not recognise Him. One who does not

have proper understanding about Allahswt one’s heart does not establish any stable

gnosis about Allahswt with clear awareness of such gnosis that one would find in his

heart. No one can be as such except those whose deeds would confirm their words and

their private activities would agree with their public image. This is because Allah,

Sacrosanct are whose names, has not shown what is private and unknown form

intelligence except through what is public from it and speaks for it.

“O Hisham, the commander of the true believers, Imam Alia.s has said, ” Allahswt cannot

be worshipped appreciably but through wisdom. No one’s intelligence reaches a perfect

status until certain qualities are not attained: 1) disbelief and evil deeds stay away from

him; 2) kindness and goodness may be expected from him; 3) Generosity in the way of

Allahswt may be expected from him; 4) Excessive talk and content with basic necessities

may be part of his personality; 5) he never considers himself as to have learned enough;

6) to be with Allahswt, being in a very humble state, is far better to him than to live very

much honoured with non-believers; 7) he would highly regard little favours of others

while considering his generous help to them as insignificant. He considers all the other

people better than himself whereas himself as the worse them and this is the totality of

all virtues.”

“O Hisham, a man of intelligence would never lie even though it may be advantageous

for him.”

“O Hisham, one who cannot offer kindness he has no beliefs, and one cannot have such

noble character without intelligence. A person of the greatest value among people is the

one who would turn away from the worldly gains. Be aware, Nothing is worth for your

residence (bodies) other than paradise. Do not sell it for any thing else but paradise.

“O Hisham, the commander of the true believers, Imam Alia.s has said, ” A wise person is

distinguished through the following three Nobel qualities: He advise only when

requested and he would only provide solutions when others fails to resolve issues and

would offer his expertise when it is beneficial to his people. The one who does not

posses any of these qualities is a fool.” Imama.s also has said, “No one else except a

person having all or some of the above qualities should chair a gathering but if one does

that (without any of such qualities) he is stupid.”

Imam Hassan ibn Alia.s has said, “when you need subsistence then ask from those who

are able to award.” He was asked, “O grandson of the holy Prophetsaww, ‘Who are these

sources?” Hea.s replied, “They are those about whom Allahswt has spoken in His book

saying, “Only those who have understanding will take heed and they are the people of

intelligence (Masomeenas).”

Imam Ali ibn al-Husayna.s has said, “Being in the company of righteous people one

develops good manners and kind heart and association with the scholars would

enhance one’s intelligence. Obedience to the authorities that practice justice is an

honour. Providing the subsistence to household is a dignifying practice. Guiding the

one who asks for guidance is an expression of gratitude. To restrain from harming

others would lead to the perfection of intelligence in which there is comfort for the body

sooner or later.”

“O Hisham, a wise man would not speak to a person out of fear of being denounced. He

would not seek help from those who he suspects would turn his requests down. He

would not commit what he cannot deliver. He would not build his hope in that which may

lead to severity and harshness. He would not take any steps towards which he fears may

not be achieved within his abilities.”

Tradition 1.13

Ali ibn Muhammad has narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad in a marfu‘ manner Amir al-Mu’minin

Alia.s who has said the following.

“Wisdom is hidden within oneself (concealed) whereas generosity for good causes is

explicit quality. Thus try to compensate your physical shortcomings with your kind

contributions to society. And eliminate your odd desires with the help of your

intelligence and in so you will win friendship and love becomes manifest for you.”

Tradition 1.14

A number of our people have narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad from Ali ibn Hadid from

Suma’a ibn Mihran who has said the following.

“With a gathering of his followers I was in the presence of Imam Abu ‘Abdullaha.s. A

discussion on intelligence and ignorance began to emerge among them. Thereupon

Imam Abu ‘Abdullaha.s said, “You, first, must recognize intelligence and its army and

ignorance and its army only then you would find proper guidance.” I then asked, may

Allah make my soul of service to you, we only learn what you teach us.” The Imama.s

said, “Allahswt, the most Glorious, the most Majestic created intelligence and it was the

first creature of spiritual world and asked the wisdom to come forward, it moved

forward. He then told it to go backwards and the intelligence went backwards. Allahswt,

the most Sacrosanct, the Most High said, “you are among my greatest creation and I

honoured you above all others of my creatures. The Imama.s continued, “Allahswt then

created ignorance from a salty dark ocean and told it, “move backwards and did move

backwards. He then called it to come forwards but it did not come forwards. He then said

to it, ‘Did you shun coming forwards?” Heswt then pronounced it condemned. Heswt then

assigned seventy-five armies for intelligence. When ignorance saw all the honours

Allahswt has granted to intelligence it bore hidden animosity towards intelligence and

said, “Lord this creature is just like me. You created and honoured it and gave it powers.

But I have not been given any abilities in comparison. Give me also likewise armies. The

Lordswt then said, “I will also give you an army but if you would still disobey Me I will

then expel you and your army from My mercy. Ignorance then said, ‘I agree.’ Allahswt

gave it seventy-five armies and these were to counter the army of intelligence.

The Army of Intelligence The Army of Ignorance

1 Goodness is the minister of

Intelligence

Evil is the minister of Ignorance

2 Faith Disbelief

3 Professing Refusal

4 Hope Despair

5 Justice Injustice

6 Consent Disapproval

7 Thankfulness Ungratefulness

8 Expectation Hopelessness

9 Reliance Greed

10 Soft-heartedness Hard-heartedness

11 Mercy Anger

12 Knowledge Ignorance

13 Understanding Foolishness

14 Chastity Reckless

15 Restraint Craving

16 Relenting Relentless

17 Cautious Reckless

18 Humbleness Arrogance

19 Relax Haste

20 Forbearance Silliness

21 Quietness Bluffing

22 Peacefulness Contempt

23 Acceptance Rejection

24 Patience Impatience

25 Forgiving Revenge

26 Self-reliance Dependence

27 Remembrance Forgetfulness

28 Sympathy Incomprehension

29 Self-content Envy

30 Generous Avaricious

31 Affection Animosity

32 Loyalty Infidelity

33 Obedience Disobedience

34 Subservience Supremacy

35 Security Affliction

36 Love Hatred

37 Truthfulness Deceit

38 Truth Falsehood

39 Trustworthiness Treachery

40 Sincerity Distortion

41 Intelligence Feeble-mindedness

42 Comprehension Simple-mindedness

43 Cognisance Refusal

44 Safekeeping Carelessness

45 Security unseen Intemperance

46 Protective Unmasking

47 Prayer Uncouth

48 Fasting Impatient

49 Hard working Easy going

50 Hajj Disregard of covenant

51 Soundness of words Scandalous

52 Kindness to parents Rudeness to parents

53 Factual Braggart

54 Legitimate Wickedness

55 Guarded Bedecked

56 Concealment Hatching

57 Fairness Biased

58 Peaceable Rebelliousness

59 Cleanliness Filthiness

60 Bashfulness Ill-mannered

61 Impartiality Aggressive

62 Comfort Exhaustion

63 Ease Hardships

64 Blessedness Lack of blessings

65 Tranquillity Suffering

66 Stability Aggrandizing

67 Wisdom Desires

68 Dignity Meanness

69 Fortunateness Unfortunate

70 Repentance Persistence

71 Seeking forgiveness Keeping pride

72 Conservativeness Heedlessness

73 Invoking Withholding

74 Vitality Lethargic

75 Happiness Sorrow

No one other than a prophet or his successor or a true believer- whose strength in faith

has already been tested by Allahswt, can have the whole army of intelligence with all such

characteristics. However, some of our followers and friends may acquire some of such

characteristics so that they may reach perfection and repulse the army of ignorance and

purify themselves from evil. In such case they also will step at the high degree and level

of the prophetsas and the successorsas of the prophetsas. This progress can only be

made after knowing, with certainty, intelligence and its army and ignorance and its army.

May Allahswt provides us and you the opportunity to obey Him and perform our duties

towards Him.

Tradition 1.15

A group of our people has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Isa from al-Hassan ibn Ali

ibn Faddal from certain persons of our people from abu ‘Abdullah who has said the following.

“The holy Prophetsaww never addressed to people but according to their level of

understanding and wisdom. The holy Prophetsaww has said, “We the community of the

Prophetsas are commanded to speak to people according to their level of intelligence

and understanding.”

Tradition 1.16

Ali ibn Muhammad has narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad from al-Nawfali from al-Sakuni from Ja‘far

from his father from Amir al-Mu’minin Alia.s who has said the following. Imam Abu Ja’far a.s has

narrated from Imam Alia.s who has said the following.

“The heart of Ignorant people are like their hunt gods, greed motivates their hearts,

longings and craving keep them as hostages of Satan’s deceit.”

Tradition 1.17

Ali ibn Ibrahim has narrated from his father from Ja‘far ibn Muhammad al-Ash‘ari from

‘Ubaydallah al-Dihqan from Durust from Ibrahim ibn ‘Abd al-Hamid from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who

has said the following.

“The intelligence of a person cannot be attain a high level unless he disciplines himself

in the best moral values.”

Tradition 1.18

Ali has narrated from his father from abu Hashim al-Ja‘fari who has said the following.

“We were in the presence of Imam al-Rizaa.s and a discussion about intelligence took

place and the Imama.s said, “O abu Hashim, intelligence is a present from Allahswt which

was distributed by Him, some received more and some got less, but knowledge and

understanding was left at the disposal of the individuals to acquire and enhance it. But if

someone does not strive for education and does not approach to the people who know

more will only increase his ignorance.”

Tradition 1.19

Ali ibn Ibrahim has narrated from his father from Yahya ibn al-Mubarak from ‘Abdullah

ibn Jubla from ibn Ishaq ibn ‘Ammar from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the following:

“I asked Imam Abu ‘Abdullah Rizaa.s, ‘May Allahswt take my soul in service for your

cause, I am impressed by my neighbour who regularly offers prays, gives much charity

and very often visits Makka and performs Hajj.’” The Imamas asked, “O ibn Ishaq how

about his intellect?” I then replied, “May Allahswt take my soul in service for your cause,

he does not have any intelligence” “Nothing from what he does will be raised up (to

heavens).” Replied the Imamas.

Tradition 1.20

Al-Husayn ibn Muhammad has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Sayyari from abu

Ya’qub al-Baghdadi who has said the following:

“Ibn Sukayt asked Imam Abu al-Hassana.s, ‘Why did Allahswt sent Mosesa.s with the

miracle appearing through his cane and through his hand resembling to magic, Jesusa.s

with the healing powers and Prophet Muhammad (may Allahswt send blessings upon him,

his family and all the prophets) with the supremacy of speech and sermons?’”

Imama.s replied: “When Mosesa.s was sent magic was very popular among the people.

Hea.s showed a miracle in a form that was not possible for others to comprehend. He was

given such means that destroyed the magical effects of those people’s magic and

established the truth of the message of Allahswt among them. Allahswt sent Jesusa.s at a

time when serious disease problems had existed among the people and they were

desperately needed cure. Jesusa.s brought from Allahswt what the people did not have. He

brought from Allahswt the means to bring the dead back to life, cure the sick and the

lepers by the permission of Allahswt and thus, established the truthfulness of the

message of Allahswt among the people.”

Allahswt sent Prophet Muhammada.s at a time when oratory and speech was very popular

among the people. Hea.s brought from Allahswt to the people the good advise and wisdom

that showed the falsehood in their speeches and thus established the truthfulness of the

message of Allahswt among them.” Ibn al-Sukayt then said, “I swear by Allahswt that I

have never seen anyone like you. What is the proof to establish the truthfulness of the

message of Allahswt among people today?” The Imama.s then said, ‘It is the intelligence.

Through intelligence one recognizes those who speak the truth from Allahswt, thus, one

acknowledges their truthfulness and those who lie in the name of Allahswt their lies come

to light.” Ibn al-Sukayt then said, ” By Allahswt this is the answer.”

Tradition 1.21

Al-Husayn ibn Muhammad has narrated from Mu‘alla ibn Muhammad from al-Washsha’ from al-

Muthanna al-Hannat from al-Qutayba al-A ‘sha’ from ibn abu Ya‘fur from a slave of clan of

Shayban from Abu Ja‘fara.s who has said the following:

“When al-Qa’ima.s, (the one who will rise with Divine Authority) the guardian, of our

progeny will appear from occultation, Allahswt will dispense His kindness over the heads

of His servants so that their intelligence and understanding is increased (to recognise al-

Qa’ima.s).”

Tradition 1.22

Ali ibn Muhammad has narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad from Muhammad ibn Sulayman from Ali

ibn Ibrahim from ‘Abdullah ibn Sinan from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the following.

“The authority of Allahswt over the people are His Prophetsa.s and the authority between

Allahswt and the people is intelligence.”

Tradition 1.23

A number of our people have narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad in a mursal manner from

Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the following.

“Intelligence is the support for human beings. You can achieve the following four

benefits from intelligence: firstly to reveal the defects of unjust imam through Quranic

guidance, secondly to understanding the attributes of the divine imama.s, thirdly to

recognise your limits under vague circumstances and fourthly to memorise the religious

affairs from divine Imams. Thus to achieve perfection through intelligence. Intelligence

is his guide, his instructor and the key to his affairs. When his intelligence is supported

with the light he becomes a scholar, a keeper (of knowledge), an intelligent re-caller and

a man of understanding. Through intelligence he learns the answer to how, why and

where or when. He learns who helps and who intend to harm him. When he learns these

(facts) he learns the channels, the connections and the differentiating factors. He then

establishes pure faith in the oneness of Allahswt and acknowledges the need to obey

Him. When he does so he finds the proper remedy for what he has lost and the right

approach to whatever may come in. He knows well his present involvement, and the

reason his creation, wherefrom has he come and to the end he is destined. He will have

understanding of all these because of intelligence.”

Tradition 1.24

Ali ibn Muhammad has narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad from ’Isma‘il ibn Mihran from certain

persons of his people from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the following.

“Intelligence is the guide of a true believer.”

Tradition 1.25

Al-Husayn ibn Muhammad has narrated from Mu‘alla ibn Muhammad from al-Washsha’ from

Hammad ibn ‘Uthman from al-Sariy ibn Khalid from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the

following.

” The Messengersaww of Allahswt said, ‘O Alia.s, no poverty is more sever than ignorance

and no assets are more profitable than intelligence.”

Tradition 1.26

Muhammad ibn al-Hassan has narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad from ibn abu Najran from al-‘Ala’

ibn Razin from Muhammad ibn Muslim from Abu Ja‘fara.s who has said the following.

“When Allahswt, created intelligence He said to it, ‘Come forward’. It came forward. He

then said, “Go back.” It went back. Then Allahswt said, “I swear by My honour and glory, I

have not created any creature more useful than you. I will command only you to do

certain things and prohibit only you from doing certain things. I will grant blessings

(rewards) to you only and will subject only you to punishments.”

Tradition 1.27

A number of our people has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad from al-Haytham ibn abu

Masruq al-Nahdi from al-Husayn ibn Khalid from Ishaq ibn ‘Ammar who has said the following.

“I said to Abu ‘Abdullaha.s, “A man comes to me and he would quickly pick up all my

subject matter even when I have told him part of it. There are also people who come to

me and I speak with them in extensive details and only then they would understand all of

my statements and would explain to me what I meant. There are still others to whom I

speak at length but they ask me to reiterate my thoughts.” The Imama.s then said, “O

Ishaq, do you know why is this difference?” I replied, ” No, I do not know.” The Imama.s

explained the following, “Those to whom you speak only part of what you want to say

and they understand the rest, are those who had received the intelligence during the

time of their inception. Those who understand you only when you complete your speech

are those who were awarded intelligence when they were in the womb of their mothers.

Those who ask you to repeat what you already said are those, who were given

intelligence when they were growing up.”

Tradition 1.28

A number of our people has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad from certain persons of our

people in a marfu‘ manner from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the following.

“The Holy Prophetsaww has said, ‘Whenever you observe a person who offers prays and

keeps fasts, do not be impressed until you find him intelligent.”

Tradition 1.29

Certain persons of our people has narrated in a marfu’ manner from Mufaddal ibn ‘Umar from

Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the following.

“O Mufaddal one can never gain success until he recognises (US) and one can never

recognise until he acquires knowledge. One who develops understanding can very soon

excel. One who exercises patience can very soon triumph. Knowledge serves one as a

shield, truth is honour, ignorance is humility, sharp wittedness is glory, generosity is

success and ethical excellence attracts friendship. One who possesses the awareness

of his time cannot be frustrated by confusion. As most people pretend to be nice but

they are shallow in their manners and kindness. A wise person among people is a

blessing whereas the presence of a wicket person is a curse.

Allahswt is the guardian of those who know Him. He is the enemy of those who pretend to

know Him. A person of intelligence is forgiving and an ignorant person is treacherous. If

you like to be honoured you must become kind hearted and if you like to be insulted

become harsh. One whose origin is noble, he is kind hearted. One whose behaviour is

rough, he is hard-hearted. The extreme stance leads into crisis. One who is afraid of the

consequences desists from involvement in what he lacks judgement. One who engages

in an affair without thorough understanding is heading for a loss. One who does not

know (the Imam of his time) he would not develop an understanding and one who does

not understand he can never escape from doubts. One who does not agree and be

submissive, he is not respected and one who is not respected is ruined and one who is

so broke is blameable and one who is in such a condition must become regretful for his

own self.

Tradition 1.30

Muhammad ibn Yahya has narrated from in a marfu‘ manner from Amir al-Mu’minin Alia.s who

has said the following.

“If one would establish firmly in himself one good quality for me I will credit him for it

and forgive his other shortcomings but I will not forgive him for his losing intelligence

and religion because departing religion is departing from peace and security. Thus, life

with fear and insecurity is unpleasant. Loss of intelligence is loss of life. A person

without intelligence cannot be compared with anything but the dead.”

Tradition 1.31

Ali ibn Ibrahim ibn Hashim has narrated from Musa ibn Ibrahim from al-Muharibi from al-Hassan

ibn Musa from Musa ibn ‘Abdullah from Maymun ibn Ali from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said

the following.

“Amir al-Mu’minin Alia.s has said, ‘Self glorification is an indication of the weakness of

one’s intelligence.’”

Tradition 1.32

Abu ‘Abdullah al-‘Asimiy has narrated from Ali ibn al-Hassan from Ali ibn Asbat from al-Hassan

ibn al-Juham from Abu al-Hassan al-Ridaa.s who has said the following.

“Our people mentioned intelligence and spoke about it in the presence of the Imam al-

Ridaa.s, and he said, ‘Of the religious people those who have no intelligence deserves no

credit.’ I then asked, “May Allahswt take my soul in your service, of such people we know

a group who are considered alright in our opinion but they do not have such

intelligence.” The Imama.s then said, ‘They are not of the people whom Allahswt has

addressed when He created intelligence and said to it, ‘Come forward’. It came forward.

He then said, “Go back.” It went back. Then Allahswt said, “I swear by My honour and

glory that I have not created anything better and more beloved to Me than you. I will

grant blessings (rewards) to you only and will subject only you to punishments.”

Tradition 1.33

Ali ibn Muhammad has narrated from Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Khalid from his father from

certain persons of our people from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the following.

“There is nothing else to distinguish belief from disbelief but lack of intelligence. People

asked the Imama.s, “How is that, O great-great-great-great grandson of the holy Prophet.”

The Imama.s replied, ‘Human beings centre their expectations on other creatures. If they

would become sincere to Allahswt, He will grant their wish and expectations much

quicker.’”

Tradition 1.34

A number of our people have narrated from Sahl ibn Ziyad from ‘Ubaydallah al-Dihqan from

Ahmad ibn ‘Umar al-Halabi from Yahya ibn ‘Umran from Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who has said the

following.

“Through brainpower the depths of wisdom are discovered and through deep thinking

the depths of intelligence are discovered. Good policies are of the virtuous moral

discipline.” Hea.s said that Imam Alia.s used to say, ‘Thinking is life for the intelligent

heart just as light helps one to walk in the darkness with ease and without waiting for a

long time.”

(a) It is narrated from Imam Abu ‘Abdullaha.s in a long narration, “The species that

Allahswt has made lovely and provides guidance to His creatures is the intelligence. With

intelligence people come to know their creator and that they are being created and that

He is the one who has shaped them and they are the ones who are being looked after.

That it is the creator that is eternal and it is the creatures that are mortals. It is the

intelligence with which they use to recognise His creatures, like the heavens, the earth,

and the sun the moon, night, the day. In this way, they learned that they and the

creatures have a creator and the sustainer who is the eternal. With intelligence they

learn about the good and the bad and that the darkness is in ignorance and the light is in

the knowledge. These are the facts that they learn with intelligence.”

People asked the Imama.s, “Can intelligence only be enough for people?” The Imama.s

then replied, ‘With guidance from intelligence that Allahswt has made him to depend on

and it is, his beauty and guide, a person of intelligence learns that Allahswt is his creator

and that He is his Lord.

Through intelligence one learns that his creator loves and dislikes certain things, that

the Lord must be obeyed and that certain acts must be performed to avoid His

disobedience-and nothing but intelligence shows him all these facts. One also (with

intelligence) learns that only with knowledge and extensive search one may reach the

Creator. That one may not benefit from his intelligence if he cannot learn the truth about

Him through his knowledge. It then is necessary for a person of intelligence to acquire

knowledge and proper moral discipline without which there is nothing else so

dependable.”

(b) It is narrated from Imam Abu ‘Abdullaha.s who said, “No wealth is more profitable than

wisdom and no poverty is more humiliating than foolishness and no effort of seeking

support is more supportive than seeking consultation.”

————————————————————————————————————

All praise belongs to Allahswt May Allahswt send peace and blessings upon

Hazrat Muhammadsaw and his holy progeny.