Hadith #7503

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, and his noble companions.

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding in relation to the guidance brought by the Prophets. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that those who possess the most knowledge about the teachings of the Prophets are the ones who are most deserving of their guidance.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (awla) "أوْلَى" means "most deserving" or "closest." It implies a sense of priority and importance. The word (annas) "النّاسِ" refers to "the people" or "mankind." (bil-anbiya) "بِالأنْبِياءِ" means "of the Prophets," indicating that the guidance being referred to is that which the Prophets brought.

The phrase (a'lamuhum) "أعْلَمُهُمْ" means

those who have the most knowledge.

It highlights the significance of knowledge and understanding in relation to the guidance of the Prophets. It suggests that the more knowledge one possesses about the teachings of the Prophets, the more deserving they are of their guidance.

To further comprehend the importance of knowledge in Islam, we can turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9):

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse emphasizes the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It highlights the superiority of knowledge and the elevated status it holds in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states:

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse illustrates that knowledge is a means of elevation and honor. It is a quality that distinguishes believers and grants them a higher rank in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. The Prophets were sent by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) to guide humanity and convey His message. They brought divine knowledge and wisdom to enlighten mankind. However, this guidance is not limited to the time of the Prophets; it extends to all generations.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the true recipients of this guidance are those who possess knowledge and understanding of the teachings of the Prophets. It is not enough to merely claim belief; one must actively seek knowledge and strive to comprehend the message of the Prophets.

By acquiring knowledge, we gain a deeper understanding of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This knowledge allows us to navigate the complexities of life, make informed decisions, and uphold the principles of Islam. It empowers us to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood, and to live our lives in accordance with the divine guidance.

Moreover, knowledge serves as a means of protection against ignorance and deviation. It shields us from falling into misinterpretations and misunderstandings. It enables us to recognize and reject false ideologies and practices that may lead us astray.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to seek knowledge and deepen our understanding of the teachings of the Prophets. This pursuit of knowledge should be a lifelong journey, as there is always more to learn and discover. It is through knowledge that we can truly appreciate and benefit from the guidance brought by the Prophets.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding in relation to the guidance of the Prophets. It reminds us that those who possess the most knowledge about the teachings of the Prophets are the ones who are most deserving of their guidance. As Muslims, it is incumbent upon us to seek knowledge, deepen our understanding, and apply the teachings of the Prophets in our lives. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and guidance to do so.