Hadith #4674

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "مَنْ سَألَ اِسْتَفادَ۔" which translates to

One who asks, benefits.

This concise statement holds a connotation that can be further understood by exploring the words used in the Hadith.

The word (sa'ala) "سَأَلَ" in Arabic means "to ask" or "to request." It implies seeking knowledge, guidance, or assistance from someone who possesses the desired information or capability. This act of asking demonstrates humility, recognition of one's limitations, and a desire to acquire knowledge or assistance.

On the other hand, the word (istafada) "اِسْتَفَادَ" is derived from the root word (fawd) "فَوْد", which means "benefit" or "gain." It signifies the act of obtaining something beneficial or advantageous as a result of asking. It implies that the one who asks will receive knowledge, guidance, or assistance that will bring about positive outcomes and personal growth.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and guidance in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah says,

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who remain ignorant.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), Allah describes the characteristics of the people of knowledge, saying,

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great wealth.

This verse emphasizes that knowledge is a valuable asset that brings immense benefits to those who possess it.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) complements these Quranic teachings by highlighting the importance of seeking knowledge and guidance through asking. It reminds us that by humbly approaching those who possess knowledge and asking for their guidance, we can benefit and gain valuable insights that will positively impact our lives.

The act of asking not only allows us to acquire knowledge but also fosters a sense of humility and recognition of our own limitations. It encourages us to acknowledge that we do not possess all the answers and that seeking guidance from those who are more knowledgeable is a means of personal growth and development.

Moreover, this Hadith also serves as a motivation for individuals to actively engage in seeking knowledge. It encourages Muslims to be curious, inquisitive, and eager to learn. By asking questions and seeking answers, we open doors to new perspectives, deepen our understanding, and expand our intellectual horizons.

The consequences of implementing this Hadith in our lives are manifold. By seeking knowledge and guidance, we can make informed decisions, avoid pitfalls, and navigate through the complexities of life with wisdom and clarity. Additionally, the act of asking fosters a sense of community and unity among Muslims, as it encourages the sharing of knowledge and the cultivation of a culture of learning.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the immense knowledge and wisdom possessed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). His unparalleled understanding of the Quran and his deep insights into various aspects of life make him a beacon of knowledge for Muslims. His teachings and guidance continue to inspire and enlighten us, urging us to seek knowledge and benefit from it.

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

One who asks, benefits,

emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge, guidance, and assistance through the act of asking. It encourages Muslims to approach those who possess knowledge with humility and curiosity, recognizing that by doing so, they can acquire valuable insights and benefit in numerous ways. By implementing this Hadith in our lives, we can strive for personal growth, make informed decisions, and foster a culture of learning within our communities. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and motivation to seek knowledge and benefit from it.