Hadith #3123

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الخِذلانُ مُمِدُّ الجَهْلِ" which translates to

Abandonment is a support for ignorance.

This beautiful Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the detrimental consequences of neglecting one's responsibilities and duties.

To fully comprehend the meaning of this Hadith, let us delve into the key words used. The word (abandonment) "الخِذلانُ" refers to the act of forsaking or neglecting something. It implies a lack of commitment and dedication towards fulfilling one's obligations. The word (support) "مُمِدُّ" signifies a means of sustenance or assistance. And finally, the word (ignorance) "الجَهْلِ" refers to a state of lacking knowledge or understanding.

In light of the Quran, we find numerous verses that emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge and fulfilling our responsibilities. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11),

O you who have believed, when you are told, 'Make room in assemblies,' then make room; Allah will make room for you. And when you are told, 'Arise,' then arise; Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse highlights the significance of fulfilling our obligations and responsibilities. By neglecting our duties, we not only hinder our own growth and development but also contribute to the perpetuation of ignorance. Abandonment of our responsibilities leads to a lack of progress and enlightenment, both individually and collectively.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:110), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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 actively promoting knowledge and righteousness, as well as discouraging ignorance and wrongdoing.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to fulfill their responsibilities and actively seek knowledge. When we abandon our duties, whether they be religious, social, or personal, we create a void that is filled by ignorance. This ignorance not only affects us individually but also has far-reaching consequences for society as a whole.

For example, if we neglect our duty to educate ourselves and others about the teachings of Islam, we allow misconceptions and misunderstandings to prevail. This can lead to the spread of false information and the misinterpretation of religious texts. Similarly, if we abandon our responsibility to promote justice and stand against oppression, we contribute to the perpetuation of injustice and inequality.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to fulfill their responsibilities and actively seek knowledge. By abandoning our duties, we not only hinder our own growth but also contribute to the prevalence of ignorance. It is incumbent upon us to actively promote knowledge, righteousness, and justice in order to combat ignorance and create a society that is enlightened and guided by the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to fulfill our responsibilities and seek knowledge.