Hadith #6085

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ما كُلُّ طالِب يَخيبُ۔

This can be translated into English as

Not every seeker fails.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this wise utterance in light of the Quran.

The word (taalib) "طالِب" in Arabic refers to a seeker or someone who is in pursuit of something. It signifies an individual who is actively seeking knowledge, guidance, or any other form of attainment. The word (yakhib) "يَخيبُ" means to fail or be disappointed. Therefore, the Hadith can be understood as a reminder that not every seeker will experience failure or disappointment.

This Hadith resonates with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, guidance, and righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages Muslims to seek knowledge and assures them that their efforts will not be in vain. In Surah Al-Zumar, Allah says, (Quran 47:19)

So know, [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women. And Allah knows of your movement and your resting place.

This verse highlights the significance of seeking knowledge about the oneness of Allah and seeking forgiveness for one's sins. It assures Muslims that Allah is aware of their efforts and their intentions, and He will reward them accordingly. Thus, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that not every seeker will fail in their pursuit of knowledge and righteousness.

It is important to understand that success in seeking knowledge is not limited to academic achievements or worldly recognition. True success lies in attaining spiritual enlightenment, deepening our understanding of Islam, and implementing its teachings in our lives. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) promises guidance and success to those who sincerely seek it. In Surah Al-Ankabut, Allah says, (Quran 29:69)

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.

This verse assures Muslims that if they strive and put in sincere effort in seeking Allah's guidance, He will surely guide them to the right path. It is a testament to the fact that not every seeker will fail, as Allah's guidance is always available to those who seek it with sincerity and humility.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a motivation for Muslims to continue their pursuit of knowledge, righteousness, and spiritual growth. It reminds us that even in the face of challenges and setbacks, we should not lose hope or give up. Instead, we should remain steadfast and trust in Allah's promise of guidance and success.

Furthermore, this Hadith also highlights the profound knowledge and wisdom of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). As the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) possessed immense knowledge and understanding of Islam. His statement serves as a reminder that success in seeking knowledge is not limited to a select few, but it is attainable by anyone who strives for it.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

ما كُلُّ طالِب يَخيبُ۔

reminds us that not every seeker fails in their pursuit of knowledge, guidance, and righteousness. It aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which assure Muslims that their efforts in seeking knowledge and righteousness will be rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to continue their journey of seeking knowledge and to trust in Allah's promise of guidance and success. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with success in our pursuit of knowledge and righteousness.