Hadith #7483

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

لايُحْرِزُ الْعِلْمَ إلاّ مَنْ يُطيلُ دَرْسَهُ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of dedicating sufficient time and effort to the pursuit of knowledge. Let us delve into the deeper meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (yuhrizu) "يُحْرِزُ" in the Hadith means to obtain or acquire. It implies not just gaining knowledge superficially, but truly internalizing and benefiting from it. The word (al-'ilm) "الْعِلْمَ" refers to knowledge, encompassing both religious and worldly knowledge. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting that true acquisition of knowledge requires a continuous and dedicated effort.

The phrase (man yutilu darshahu) "مَنْ يُطيلُ دَرْسَهُ" means the one who prolongs or extends their study. It emphasizes the need for persistence and consistency in seeking knowledge. This Hadith encourages Muslims to go beyond superficial learning and invest time and effort in deepening their understanding.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge and the rewards it brings. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (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 highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It emphasizes that knowledge is a means of remembrance and understanding.

In Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse indicates that those who have faith and knowledge will be elevated in status by Allah. It further emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and its positive impact on one's spiritual growth.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we understand that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is urging Muslims to dedicate sufficient time to their studies. This applies not only to religious knowledge but also to secular fields of study. By doing so, individuals can acquire a deep understanding of various subjects and apply their knowledge effectively in their lives.

Prolonging one's study requires discipline, perseverance, and a genuine desire to seek knowledge. It involves engaging in continuous learning, whether through formal education, self-study, or seeking guidance from knowledgeable individuals. By investing time and effort in acquiring knowledge, Muslims can develop a strong foundation for personal growth, contribute positively to society, and fulfill their responsibilities as ambassadors of Islam.

Furthermore, the Hadith reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey. It is not limited to a specific age or stage of life. Muslims should strive to continuously expand their knowledge and seek opportunities for intellectual growth. By doing so, they can fulfill their duty as lifelong learners and contribute to the betterment of their communities.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of dedicating sufficient time and effort to the acquisition of knowledge. It encourages Muslims to go beyond superficial learning and invest in deepening their understanding. By doing so, individuals can benefit themselves and society, and fulfill their responsibility as seekers and disseminators of knowledge. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with the ability to seek knowledge and apply it in our lives.