Hadith #7328

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The lowliest knowledge is that which stops at the tongue [and is not acted upon].

This enlightening Hadith highlights the importance of not only acquiring knowledge but also implementing it in our lives. To fully understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of its key words.

The word (awda'u) "أوْضَعُ" in Arabic refers to something that is lowly, base, or of little value. It signifies knowledge that lacks substance or fails to bring about any positive change. This type of knowledge is superficial and does not penetrate the depths of one's being.

The word (al-'ilm) "العِلْمِ" means knowledge, which encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. It is the understanding and awareness of facts, principles, and concepts. Knowledge is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and holds immense value in Islam.

The phrase (ma waqafa 'ala al-lisan)

ما وَقَفَ عَلَى اللِّسانِ

translates to

that which stops at the tongue.

It refers to knowledge that remains confined to mere words and is not put into practice. This knowledge is not internalized or applied in one's actions, rendering it ineffective and insignificant.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of knowledge and its practical implementation. In Surah Al-Imran (3:79), Allah says,

It is not for a human [prophet] that Allah should give him the Scripture and authority and prophethood and then he would say to the people, 'Be servants to me rather than Allah.' But [instead, he would say], 'Be pious scholars of the Lord because of what you have taught of the Scripture and because of what you have studied.'

This verse highlights the responsibility of those who possess knowledge to act as righteous scholars, guiding others towards the path of Allah. It emphasizes that knowledge should not be used for personal gain or to assert authority over others, but rather to serve Allah and benefit humanity.

Another verse that aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:5), where Allah says,

The example of those who were entrusted with the Torah and then did not take it on is like that of a donkey who carries volumes [of books]. Wretched is the example of the people who deny the signs of Allah. And Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.

This verse warns against the futility of possessing knowledge without acting upon it. It compares such individuals to a donkey carrying books, highlighting the absurdity of knowledge that remains untouched and unutilized. It serves as a reminder that knowledge without action holds no value in the sight of Allah.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Quranic verses, we understand that knowledge is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a transformative force that should shape our character and actions. True knowledge is one that is internalized, practiced, and shared for the betterment of society.

When we acquire knowledge, it is our duty as Muslims to ensure that it translates into righteous actions. We should strive to embody the teachings of Islam in our daily lives, seeking to make a positive impact on ourselves and those around us. By doing so, we elevate our knowledge from being lowly and superficial to being a source of guidance and enlightenment.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge with sincerity and to implement it in our lives. May He bless us with the ability to be true scholars who not only possess knowledge but also act upon it, thereby earning His pleasure and the reward of the Hereafter.