Hadith #2710

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

بِالحِكْمَةِ يُكْشَفُ غِطاءُ العِلْمِ۔

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the significance of wisdom in unveiling the veils that shroud knowledge. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith.

The word (hikmah) "حِكْمَةِ" refers to wisdom, which is the ability to apply knowledge in a righteous and beneficial manner. It encompasses understanding, insight, and the ability to make sound judgments. Wisdom is not merely theoretical knowledge, but rather the practical implementation of knowledge in a way that brings about positive outcomes.

The word (ghita') "غِطَاءُ" means a veil or a covering that conceals something. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to the barriers and obstacles that hinder the acquisition and understanding of knowledge. These barriers can be intellectual, spiritual, or societal in nature.

The word (ilm) "عِلْمِ" means knowledge, which encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. It includes knowledge of the Quran, the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and the wisdom of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Knowledge is a divine gift that enlightens the mind, purifies the soul, and guides individuals towards the path of righteousness.

To understand the meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269),

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

This verse highlights that wisdom is a divine blessing bestowed upon those whom Allah chooses. It is through wisdom that the veils of ignorance and misunderstanding are lifted, allowing individuals to gain a deeper understanding of knowledge.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Qasas (28:14), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We gave David and Solomon knowledge, and they said: 'All praise is due to Allah, Who has preferred us above many of His believing servants.'

This verse demonstrates that knowledge, when coupled with wisdom, leads to gratitude and recognition of Allah's blessings. It is through wisdom that the true value and significance of knowledge are realized.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the inseparable relationship between wisdom and knowledge. Wisdom serves as the key that unlocks the doors of understanding and removes the veils that obstruct the acquisition and comprehension of knowledge. Without wisdom, knowledge remains concealed and inaccessible.

When we reflect upon this Hadith, we realize that it carries profound implications for our personal and collective growth as Muslims. It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and acquiring wisdom to navigate through the complexities of life. It encourages us to not only accumulate knowledge but also to apply it wisely in our actions and decisions.

Wisdom enables us to discern between right and wrong, to make informed choices, and to act in a manner that aligns with the teachings of Islam. It empowers us to use our knowledge for the betterment of ourselves and society, to promote justice, compassion, and harmony.

Moreover, this Hadith reminds us that knowledge without wisdom can be dangerous. It warns against the arrogance and misuse of knowledge, which can lead to division, oppression, and corruption. Wisdom acts as a safeguard, ensuring that knowledge is utilized for the greater good and in accordance with the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that wisdom is the key to unlocking the veils that obscure knowledge. It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and acquiring wisdom to navigate through the complexities of life. By applying wisdom in our actions and decisions, we can utilize knowledge for the betterment of ourselves and society. May Allah grant us the wisdom to understand and apply knowledge in a way that pleases Him and benefits humanity.