Hadith #10977

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 noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Humility is the fruit of knowledge.

This enlightening Hadith emphasizes the importance of humility as a direct result of acquiring knowledge. Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith and explore its deeper implications in light of the Quran.

The word (tawāḍuʿ) "تَوَاضُع" translates to "humility" in English. It refers to a state of modesty, meekness, and lowliness in the presence of Allah and others. Humility is an essential virtue in Islam, as it reflects a person's recognition of their own insignificance before the greatness of Allah. It is a quality that allows one to acknowledge their limitations and weaknesses, and to treat others with kindness and respect.

The term (ʿilm) "عِلْم" means "knowledge" in Arabic. Knowledge in Islam encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. It includes understanding of the Quran, the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and the wisdom of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). It also encompasses knowledge in various fields such as science, medicine, and ethics. Knowledge is a means of enlightenment and guidance, leading individuals towards a deeper understanding of themselves, their Creator, and the world around them.

To further comprehend the significance of humility as the fruit of knowledge, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights the importance of recognizing the equality and diversity among human beings. True knowledge leads to the understanding that all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or social status, are equal in the eyes of Allah. This realization fosters humility, as one understands that their knowledge does not make them superior to others, but rather it is a gift from Allah to be used for the betterment of humanity.

Another verse that supports the concept of humility as the fruit of knowledge is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:83), where Allah says,

That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous.

This verse reminds us that true knowledge should not lead to arrogance or a desire for worldly power and dominance. Instead, it should inspire individuals to strive for righteousness and seek the eternal rewards of the Hereafter. Humility is the natural consequence of recognizing that worldly achievements and positions hold no true value in the sight of Allah, and that the ultimate success lies in righteousness and piety.

Imam Ali's statement,

Humility is the fruit of knowledge,

serves as a reminder for Muslims to cultivate humility as they acquire knowledge. It reminds us that true knowledge should not inflate our egos or lead us to look down upon others. Rather, it should humble us and motivate us to use our knowledge for the betterment of society, to serve others, and to seek the pleasure of Allah.

When Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) made this statement, he exemplified the embodiment of knowledge and humility. His vast knowledge and wisdom were renowned, yet he remained humble and approachable. He treated everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their social status or background. His humility was a testament to the true essence of knowledge and its transformative power.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that humility is the natural outcome of acquiring knowledge. It reminds us to remain humble in the face of our own knowledge and accomplishments, and to treat others with kindness and respect. By embodying humility, we can truly benefit from the blessings of knowledge and use it to serve humanity and seek the pleasure of Allah. May Allah grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge with humility and use it for the betterment of ourselves and others.