Hadith #4073

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 Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The best of (all) savings is knowledge that is acted upon and good that is not followed by obligation.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (dhakha'ir) "ذَخَائِرِ" refers to savings or treasures, while (ilm) "عِلْمٌ" means knowledge. The word (yu'malu) "يُعْمَلُ" means to be acted upon, and (ma'ruf) "مَعْرُوفٌ" refers to good deeds or acts of kindness. Lastly, (layumannu) "لايُمَنُّ" means not followed by obligation.

To understand the significance of knowledge that is acted upon, we turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:110),

You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah.

This verse emphasizes the importance of not only possessing knowledge but also implementing it in our actions. Knowledge that is not put into practice is like a treasure that remains hidden and unused.

Furthermore, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:5),

The example of those who were entrusted with the Torah and then did not take it on is like that of a donkey who carries volumes [of books].

This verse highlights the futility of possessing knowledge but failing to act upon it. It is through the application of knowledge that we truly benefit ourselves and others.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also emphasizes the importance of good deeds that are not followed by obligation. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.

This verse emphasizes that true righteousness lies in performing acts of kindness and charity, not merely fulfilling obligatory rituals.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to prioritize knowledge that is implemented in our actions and good deeds that are performed voluntarily, beyond what is obligatory. By doing so, we not only increase our own spiritual growth but also contribute positively to society.

For example, if we possess knowledge about the importance of honesty, it is not enough to simply know that lying is wrong. We must actively practice honesty in our daily lives, be truthful in our words and actions, and refrain from deceit. Similarly, if we perform acts of kindness and charity beyond what is required, such as helping the needy, visiting the sick, or supporting charitable causes, we demonstrate our commitment to goodness and compassion.

The consequences of acting upon knowledge and performing voluntary good deeds are manifold. Firstly, it strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) as we strive to follow His guidance and emulate the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Secondly, it enhances our character and moral values, making us better individuals and role models for others. Thirdly, it contributes to the betterment of society by promoting justice, compassion, and righteousness.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of knowledge that is put into action and good deeds that go beyond mere obligation. As Muslims, we should strive to acquire knowledge and implement it in our lives, while also engaging in acts of kindness and charity that exceed what is required of us. By doing so, we can truly embody the teachings of Islam and make a positive impact on ourselves and those around us.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge and the strength to act upon it. May He bless us with the ability to perform good deeds that are not followed by obligation. And may He guide us on the path of righteousness and grant us success in this life and the hereafter.