Hadith #7333

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.

In this profound hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of knowledge and its ultimate purpose. He states that the knowledge which is truly praiseworthy is the one that not only increases our good actions in this world but also brings us closer to the mercy of Allah in the Hereafter.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this hadith to understand its meaning. The word (ahmadu) "أحْمَدُ" in Arabic means "praiseworthy" or "commendable." It signifies that the knowledge which leads to the most commendable outcome is the one that has a positive impact on our actions and our relationship with Allah.

The word (al-'ilm) "العِلْمِ" refers to knowledge. It encompasses all forms of knowledge, including religious, scientific, and practical knowledge. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that the true value of knowledge lies in its practical application and its ability to transform our actions and character.

The phrase (‘aqibatan) "عاقِبَةً" means "end" or "outcome." It signifies the ultimate consequence or result of our knowledge and actions. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that the knowledge which leads to the most praiseworthy end is the one that has a positive impact on our actions and brings us closer to Allah's mercy in the Hereafter.

To further understand the significance of this hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269):

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great good. But none remember except men of understanding.

This verse emphasizes that true wisdom and knowledge come from Allah, and it is a great blessing bestowed upon those who are granted it. However, it also highlights that only those who possess understanding can truly appreciate and benefit from this knowledge. Hence, it is not merely the acquisition of knowledge that matters, but the understanding and application of it in our lives.

Another verse that resonates with the message of this hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:56):

Indeed, you [O Muhammad] do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse reminds us that guidance ultimately comes from Allah. It is not solely dependent on the efforts of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) or any other human being. Similarly, the knowledge that leads to a praiseworthy end is not solely dependent on the acquisition of knowledge itself, but on the guidance and blessings of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of this hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, emphasizes that knowledge should not be pursued for its own sake or for the sake of worldly recognition. Instead, it should be sought with the intention of increasing our good actions and drawing us closer to Allah's mercy in the Hereafter.

This hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims that knowledge is not meant to be a mere intellectual pursuit or a source of pride. It is a means to attain righteousness, improve our character, and fulfill our responsibilities as servants of Allah. The true value of knowledge lies in its ability to transform our actions, purify our hearts, and bring us closer to Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to reflect on the purpose of our knowledge and to constantly strive to align our actions with the teachings of Islam. He reminds us that the knowledge which truly matters is the one that leads to a praiseworthy end, both in this world and in the Hereafter.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge with the right intentions and to use it to improve ourselves and benefit others. May He guide us to the path of righteousness and bless us with His mercy in this world and the Hereafter.