Hadith #4670

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge with the right intention and attitude. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us that when we ask questions, we should do so with the intention of gaining understanding and enlightenment, rather than seeking to embarrass or belittle others.

The word (tafaqquh) "تَفَقُّهاً" in the Hadith means to seek understanding or comprehension. It implies a deep and profound understanding of the subject matter. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to ask questions in order to gain this level of understanding. This highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and the value of intellectual curiosity.

On the other hand, the word (ta'annutan) "تَعَنُّتاً" in the Hadith refers to asking questions with the intention of embarrassing or humiliating the person being asked. This kind of attitude is discouraged by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) as it goes against the principles of seeking knowledge and promotes arrogance and ignorance.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:170)

And when it is said to them, 'Follow what Allah has revealed,' they say, 'Rather, we will follow that which we found our fathers doing.' Even though their fathers understood nothing, nor were they guided?

This verse highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding for oneself, rather than blindly following the customs and traditions of our ancestors. It emphasizes the need to ask questions and seek clarification in order to gain true understanding of the teachings of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 39:9)

Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding in order to be among the people of understanding. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) echoes this sentiment in his Hadith, emphasizing that a person who seeks knowledge, even if they are initially ignorant, can become similar to a learned person.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) also warns against the arrogance and oppression that can accompany knowledge. The word (muta'assef) "مُتَعَسِّفَ" in the Hadith refers to someone who is oppressive or tyrannical despite possessing knowledge. This serves as a reminder that knowledge should be accompanied by humility, compassion, and justice.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of seeking knowledge with the right intention and attitude. It encourages us to ask questions in order to gain understanding and enlightenment, rather than seeking to embarrass or belittle others. It reminds us that true knowledge is not just about acquiring information, but also about embodying the values of humility, compassion, and justice. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to seek knowledge in the best manner and to use it for the betterment of ourselves and humanity.