Hadith #7437

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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,

The acquisition of knowledge is indifference towards worldly pleasures.

Let us delve into the essence of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (kasb) "كَسْبُ" in Arabic refers to the acquisition or gaining of something. In this context, it signifies the acquisition of knowledge. Knowledge is not merely information, but rather a deep understanding and awareness of the truth. It encompasses religious, intellectual, and practical knowledge that leads to personal growth and enlightenment.

The word (al-'ilm) "الْعِلْمِ" means knowledge. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses all forms of knowledge, including religious knowledge, scientific knowledge, and moral knowledge. Islam greatly emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge, as it is the key to personal and societal development.

The word (az-zuhd) "الزُّهْدُ" refers to indifference or detachment from worldly pleasures. It implies not being attached to material possessions, wealth, and worldly desires. Zuhd is not about renouncing the world completely, but rather about having a balanced perspective and not letting worldly pursuits distract us from our ultimate purpose in life.

The phrase (fi ad-dunya) "فِي الدُّنيا" means in this world. It emphasizes that the acquisition of knowledge should be accompanied by a detachment from worldly pleasures. This does not mean that Muslims should isolate themselves from the world or neglect their responsibilities. Rather, it means that they should prioritize seeking knowledge and spiritual growth over materialistic pursuits.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the importance of knowledge and the detachment from worldly pleasures. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269),

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and he to whom wisdom is granted indeed receives a benefit overflowing; but none will grasp the Message but men of understanding.

This verse highlights that knowledge is a gift from Allah, and those who are granted wisdom are truly blessed. It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding the message of Islam. The pursuit of knowledge leads to spiritual growth and enables individuals to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and insight.

Another verse that supports the concept of detachment from worldly pleasures is found in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children.

This verse reminds us that the attractions of this world are temporary and fleeting. It cautions against becoming too attached to worldly possessions and encourages Muslims to focus on the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. Detachment from worldly pleasures allows individuals to prioritize their spiritual growth and seek knowledge that will benefit them in this life and the next.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the significance of knowledge and its connection to detachment from worldly pleasures. When one acquires knowledge, they become aware of the transient nature of worldly pursuits and develop a sense of indifference towards them. This does not mean that Muslims should abandon their responsibilities or neglect their worldly affairs. Instead, it emphasizes the need to strike a balance between seeking knowledge and fulfilling worldly obligations.

By prioritizing the acquisition of knowledge and adopting a mindset of detachment from worldly pleasures, Muslims can attain a higher level of consciousness and spiritual enlightenment. They become more focused on their purpose in life and are better equipped to make informed decisions that align with their values and beliefs.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge and developing a sense of indifference towards worldly pleasures. It encourages Muslims to seek knowledge and wisdom while maintaining a balanced perspective on material possessions and desires. By doing so, they can attain spiritual growth and navigate the complexities of life with wisdom and insight. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to acquire knowledge and detach ourselves from worldly distractions.