Hadith #7426

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The excellence of knowledge is [in] acting upon it.

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

The word (fadhilah) "فَضيلَةُ" in the Hadith refers to excellence, virtue, or superiority. It implies that knowledge holds a position of great importance and honor. The word (al-'ilm) "الْعِلْمِ" means knowledge, which encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. It includes knowledge of the Quran, Hadith, sciences, arts, and all fields of study.

The phrase (al-'amal bihi) "العَمَلُ بِهِ" means acting upon it. It signifies the practical application of knowledge in our lives. It is not enough to simply possess knowledge; true excellence lies in implementing it and allowing it to guide our actions and decisions.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the significance of knowledge and the importance of acting upon it. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:18),

Allah bears witness that there is no deity except Him, and [so do] the angels and those of knowledge - [that He is] maintaining [creation] in justice. There is no deity except Him, the Exalted in Might, the Wise.

This verse highlights the testimony of Allah and the angels, along with the people of knowledge, affirming the oneness of Allah and His perfect justice. It illustrates that knowledge is not only a means of acquiring information but also a means of recognizing and acknowledging the greatness of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Are those who know equal to those who do not know? Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.

This verse draws a clear distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It implies that those who have knowledge are superior in their ability to comprehend and remember. It emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge and utilizing it to gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to Muslims that knowledge is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a practical tool that should shape our behavior and actions. It encourages us to apply the knowledge we acquire in our daily lives, seeking to align our actions with the teachings of Islam.

For example, if we learn about the importance of honesty, we should strive to be truthful in our interactions with others. If we gain knowledge about the significance of kindness, we should actively practice compassion and empathy towards those around us. By acting upon the knowledge we possess, we embody the true essence of excellence.

The consequences of acting upon knowledge are far-reaching. It not only benefits the individual but also has a positive impact on society as a whole. When individuals act upon the knowledge they possess, they become role models, inspiring others to follow suit. This creates a ripple effect, leading to a more righteous and just society.

Moreover, acting upon knowledge strengthens our relationship with Allah. It demonstrates our sincerity and commitment to following His guidance. It allows us to grow spiritually and develop a deeper connection with our Creator. By implementing the teachings of Islam in our lives, we strive to attain the pleasure of Allah and seek His forgiveness.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the excellence of knowledge lies in acting upon it. It urges Muslims to not only acquire knowledge but also to apply it in their lives. By doing so, we embody the true essence of excellence and fulfill our purpose as believers. May Allah grant us the wisdom and strength to act upon the knowledge we acquire and may He bless us with success in this life and the hereafter.