Hadith #7515

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states that the people who are most deserving of the guidance brought by the Prophets (peace be upon them) are those who possess the most knowledge about their teachings or those who act upon them. This Hadith emphasizes the importance of knowledge and action in truly benefiting from the message of the Prophets.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to gain a better understanding. The key word in this Hadith is (a'lamuhum) "أعْلَمُهُمْ", which means

the most knowledgeable among them

or

those who have the most knowledge.

This word highlights the significance of knowledge in relation to the teachings of the Prophets. It implies that those who possess deep understanding and knowledge of the Prophets' teachings are the ones who truly deserve their guidance.

To further comprehend the importance of knowledge in Islam, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

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

This verse clearly establishes the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who lack it. It highlights the distinction between individuals who seek knowledge and those who remain ignorant. Thus, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns with the Quranic emphasis on the significance of knowledge.

Additionally, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11),

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse further emphasizes the elevated status of those who possess knowledge. It indicates that knowledge is a means of spiritual elevation and a path towards attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us reflect on the implications of this Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is highlighting the importance of not only acquiring knowledge but also acting upon it. Knowledge without action is incomplete and ineffective. It is through the application of knowledge in our lives that we truly benefit from the teachings of the Prophets.

For example, if we study the Quran and gain knowledge about the importance of honesty, it is not enough to simply know that honesty is virtuous. We must actively practice honesty in our daily interactions, in our business dealings, and in all aspects of our lives. Only then can we truly embody the teachings of the Prophets and become deserving of their guidance.

Furthermore, this Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to seek knowledge and strive to understand the teachings of the Prophets. It encourages us to engage in continuous learning and to deepen our understanding of Islam. By doing so, we can become the torchbearers of the Prophets' message and contribute positively to our communities and society at large.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of knowledge and action in truly benefiting from the guidance brought by the Prophets. It encourages Muslims to seek knowledge, understand the teachings of the Prophets, and actively apply that knowledge in their lives. By doing so, we can become deserving of the guidance of the Prophets and fulfill our role as true followers of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and motivation to seek knowledge and act upon it.