Hadith #8487

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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) states,

When the elevated one becomes learned, he shows humility.

Let us delve into the meaning and significance of this enlightening saying in light of the Quran.

The word (tafaqqaha) "تَفَقَّهَ" in the Hadith refers to the act of acquiring knowledge and understanding. It signifies the process of gaining deep insight and comprehension in a particular subject matter. It is important to note that the word "تَفَقَّهَ" is derived from the root word (faqaha) "فَقَهَ", which means understanding or comprehension.

The word (ar-rafi') "الرَّفيعُ" in the Hadith refers to someone who is elevated in status, rank, or knowledge. It denotes a person who possesses a high level of knowledge and wisdom. This could refer to scholars, leaders, or individuals who have attained a significant level of understanding in a particular field.

The Hadith emphasizes that when a person of elevated status becomes knowledgeable, they should display humility. This means that despite their elevated position, they should not let their knowledge lead to arrogance or pride. Instead, they should remain humble and grounded, recognizing that true knowledge is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and a means of drawing closer to Him.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of humility and warns against arrogance and pride. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (Quran 49:11)

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers

This verse reminds us to avoid belittling or mocking others, as it may be that they are more knowledgeable or better in the sight of Allah. It teaches us to treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of their status or level of knowledge. This is a clear manifestation of humility, which is a fundamental characteristic of a true believer.

Another verse that supports the concept of humility is found in Surah Al-Qasas, where Allah says, (Quran 31:18)

And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful

This verse reminds us not to display arrogance or pride in our interactions with others. It encourages us to walk on the earth with humility, recognizing that true greatness lies in the sight of Allah and not in worldly achievements.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to all Muslims that knowledge should be a means of increasing humility, not arrogance. When a person acquires knowledge, it should humble them and make them more aware of their own limitations and the vastness of knowledge that still lies beyond their reach. It should inspire them to seek further knowledge and to share their knowledge with others in a humble and compassionate manner.

Moreover, this Hadith highlights the importance of the intention behind seeking knowledge. It reminds us that knowledge should not be pursued for the sake of personal gain or superiority, but rather for the sake of Allah and for the betterment of society. True knowledge is not just about acquiring information, but also about embodying its teachings and using it to serve others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that when a person of elevated status becomes learned, they should display humility. This teaching is in line with the Quranic emphasis on humility and the avoidance of arrogance. It reminds us that true knowledge should increase our humility and inspire us to use our knowledge for the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge with humility and to use it for the benefit of all.