Hadith #7401

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May 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 best knowledge is that which is accompanied by action.

This impactful Hadith emphasizes the importance of not only acquiring knowledge but also putting it into practice. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (khayr) "خَيْرُ" in Arabic means "the best" or "the most excellent." It signifies something that is superior in quality and holds great value. In this context, it refers to the knowledge that surpasses all other forms of knowledge. The word (ilm) "عِلْمِ" translates to "knowledge," which encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge.

The phrase (ma qarana-hu al-'amal) "ما قَارَنَهُ العَمَلُ" can be translated as

that which is accompanied by action.

Here, the word (qarana-hu) "قَارَنَهُ" means "to accompany" or

to be accompanied by.

It implies that true knowledge is not merely theoretical but is manifested through practical application.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the importance of combining knowledge with action. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (103:2-3),

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse highlights the significance of both belief and righteous actions in attaining success.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.

This verse reminds us that knowledge without action is insufficient. Allah, in His infinite wisdom, does not expect us to perform actions beyond our capabilities. Therefore, it is our duty to utilize the knowledge we possess and translate it into righteous deeds.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of action in relation to knowledge. He emphasizes that true knowledge is not confined to intellectual understanding but rather encompasses practical implementation. Merely acquiring knowledge without acting upon it is futile and fails to bring about any positive change in our lives.

When we reflect upon this Hadith, we realize that knowledge without action is like a lamp without a flame. It may possess the potential to illuminate, but it remains ineffective until it is ignited. Similarly, knowledge that is not put into practice lacks the transformative power it holds. It is through action that knowledge comes alive and impacts our character, behavior, and ultimately, our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

For instance, if we possess knowledge about the importance of prayer, but we neglect to perform it regularly, our knowledge becomes meaningless. However, when we actively engage in prayer, our understanding of its significance deepens, and it becomes a means of spiritual connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Similarly, if we acquire knowledge about the importance of kindness and compassion, but fail to demonstrate these qualities in our interactions with others, our knowledge remains superficial. However, when we actively practice kindness and compassion, our knowledge transforms into a source of positive change in society.

The consequences of neglecting the action component of knowledge are evident in various aspects of our lives. For instance, if we possess knowledge about the harmful effects of unhealthy eating habits, but continue to indulge in unhealthy foods, our knowledge fails to protect us from the negative consequences of our actions. Likewise, if we have knowledge about the importance of honesty, but engage in deceitful practices, our knowledge loses its moral value.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that true knowledge is not confined to intellectual understanding alone. It encompasses the practical application of that knowledge in our daily lives. By combining knowledge with action, we can transform ourselves and positively impact the world around us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to seek knowledge and act upon it, for indeed, the best knowledge is that which is accompanied by action.