For Whom is Wisdom (Hikmah) in the Quran?

Understanding the concept of wisdom (Hikmah) in the Holy Quran is one of the most profound and enriching topics that sheds light on hearts and minds. Wisdom is not merely knowledge or information; rather, it is insight, deep understanding of the realities of existence, the ability to discern right from wrong, and the capacity to place everything in its proper context. It is a divine gift that enables humans to build their lives upon Quranic principles and prophetic traditions, facing worldly challenges with intelligence and balance. The Quran explicitly states that Allah grants this wisdom to whom He wills, but at the same time, it introduces us to the characteristics and actions of those who are receptive to receiving this immense blessing. Verse 269 of Surah Al-Baqarah is the most explicit and fundamental verse in this regard: "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 beautifully illustrates that wisdom is a divine gift contingent upon Allah’s will, but immediately introduces the condition of "Ulu al-Albab" (people of intellect and understanding) for remembrance and grasping its profound depth. "Ulu al-Albab" are those who utilize their intellect and innate disposition to reflect on divine verses, the signs of creation, and the realities of life. They are people of contemplation, reflection, and discernment; those who are not superficial but seek to understand the essence of matters. By observing the world and its phenomena, they transcend appearances to comprehend the wisdom, power, and greatness of the Creator. They do not merely accumulate knowledge but strive to implement it in their lives, attaining an insight that guides them along the right path. Therefore, wisdom is not exclusive to those who possess vast amounts of information, but rather to those who transform information into insight and righteous action. Another group whose characteristics the Quran links with wisdom are the pious and righteous individuals. Although wisdom is not directly attributed solely to the pious, many of the commands and prohibitions mentioned in the Quran, adherence to which signifies piety (Taqwa), are themselves manifestations of practical wisdom. For instance, in Surah Al-Isra, after detailing a series of ethical and social injunctions such as not worshipping anything other than Allah, showing kindness to parents, not killing children, avoiding unlawful sexual intercourse, not approaching the orphan’s property, fulfilling covenants, observing justice in dealings, and avoiding arrogance, Allah states: "That is from what your Lord has revealed to you of wisdom. And do not make with Allah another deity, lest you be thrown into Hell, blamed and expelled." This verse indicates that adherence to these ethical and social principles is itself a part of divine wisdom, and whoever observes these principles is on the path to wisdom. Thus, individuals who possess Taqwa, act upon divine commands, and abstain from prohibitions, develop a greater capacity to receive and comprehend wisdom. The character of Luqman the Wise is a prominent example of someone to whom Allah granted wisdom. In Surah Luqman, verse 12, Allah says: "And We had certainly given Luqman wisdom [while saying], 'Be grateful to Allah.' And whoever is grateful - he is only grateful for [the benefit of] himself. And whoever is ungrateful - then indeed, Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy." Luqman’s wisdom is intertwined with gratitude. This shows that gratitude and appreciation for divine blessings are not only a means to increase sustenance and bounty but also one of the keys to unlocking the doors of wisdom. A grateful person understands the magnitude of Allah’s blessings, and this understanding grants him insight and wisdom. Luqman’s advice to his son, as recorded in the Quran (such as not associating partners with Allah, showing kindness to parents, establishing prayer, enjoining good and forbidding evil, patiently enduring hardships, and avoiding arrogance), all stem from his divine wisdom and demonstrate the practical and applicable dimensions of wisdom in daily life. Wisdom is also for those who bear the responsibility of inviting others to Allah. In Surah An-Nahl, verse 125, we read: "Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best." This verse explicitly emphasizes that calling people to Islam must be done with wisdom. Wisdom here means understanding the audience, discerning the circumstances, choosing the best time and place, and employing appropriate methods to convey the divine message. This indicates that wisdom is not merely an individual gift but a powerful tool for guiding and reforming society. Therefore, anyone seeking to spread the divine message and guide others must strive to acquire wisdom to fulfill their duty in the best possible manner. In summary, wisdom in the Quran is not exclusive to a specific or limited group of people; rather, it is a divine gift bestowed upon whomever Allah wills. However, this bestowal is not without reason. Wisdom is given to those who are "Ulu al-Albab," meaning people of deep thought and reflection, who use their intellect to understand truths. It is given to those who adhere to piety, righteousness, and ethical and social principles. It is given to those who are grateful for divine blessings and appreciate their Creator. And it is given to those who, with insight and the right approach, invite others to Allah. In other words, wisdom is a result and reward for prepared hearts, active minds, and firm resolves on the path of truth. Every believing individual who walks the path of piety, contemplation, gratitude, and striving in the way of Allah can hope that the Almighty Allah will also bestow this abundant good upon them.