Hadith #6406

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

The provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

When Allah humiliates (or abases) a servant, He denies him knowledge.

Let us delve into the meaning of this profound statement and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (ardhala) "أرْذَلَ" in the Hadith is translated as "humiliates" or "abases." It refers to the act of lowering someone's status or position, causing them to feel humiliated or degraded. This can occur due to various reasons, such as personal failures, societal circumstances, or divine decree.

The word (hazara) "حَظَرَ" in the Hadith is translated as "denies" or "withholds." It signifies the act of preventing or depriving someone of something. In this context, it refers to Allah denying the servant knowledge, which implies that the person is unable to acquire or comprehend knowledge.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah says in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11),

O you who have believed, when you are told, 'Make room in assemblies,' then make room; Allah will make room for you. And when you are told, 'Arise,' then arise; Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees. And Allah is Acquainted with what you do.

This verse highlights the importance of knowledge and the elevation it brings to individuals. Those who possess knowledge are granted a higher status by Allah. Conversely, when Allah humiliates a servant, He denies them knowledge, thereby depriving them of this elevated position.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah emphasizes the significance of seeking knowledge and understanding. He says,

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

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. The people of understanding, who seek knowledge and reflect upon it, are elevated in their remembrance of Allah and their understanding of His guidance. On the other hand, those who are denied knowledge are unable to attain this level of understanding and remembrance.

The consequences of being denied knowledge are far-reaching. Without knowledge, individuals may struggle to make informed decisions, understand the complexities of life, and fulfill their responsibilities towards Allah and humanity. They may remain in a state of ignorance, susceptible to misguided beliefs and actions.

Moreover, the denial of knowledge can have detrimental effects on society as a whole. Lack of knowledge can lead to ignorance, prejudice, and injustice. It can hinder progress, hinder the pursuit of truth, and perpetuate harmful practices and ideologies.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we realize the immense value of knowledge in Islam. It is a means of attaining closeness to Allah, understanding His guidance, and navigating the complexities of life. Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed choices, contribute positively to society, and fulfill their obligations as Muslims.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his exceptional knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of seeking knowledge and the consequences of its denial. As Muslims, we should strive to acquire knowledge, both religious and worldly, and utilize it for the betterment of ourselves and humanity.

May Allah grant us the ability to seek knowledge, understand His guidance, and use it to serve His cause and benefit society. May He protect us from the humiliation of being denied knowledge and bless us with the wisdom to make the right choices in life.