لا يَعْمَلُ بِالعِلْمِ إلاّ مَنْ أيْقَنَ بِفَضْلِ الأجْرِ فيهِ۔
Nobody acts upon [his] knowledge except the one who is certain about the greatness of its reward.
— Imam Ali a.s.
(Ghurar al-Hikam: Actions And Deeds)
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) highlights the importance of acting upon knowledge and emphasizes that only those who are certain about the immense reward it brings will truly implement it in their lives. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its essence in light of the Quran.
The first word of significance in this Hadith is (knowledge) "عِلْمِ", which refers to the understanding and awareness of religious teachings and principles. Knowledge is a fundamental aspect of Islam, and it is through knowledge that we gain a deeper understanding of our faith and the path to righteousness. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge in the Quran. In Surah Al-Zumar, verse 9, Allah says,
Say, '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, emphasizing the superiority of the former.
The next significant word in the Hadith is (certain) "أيْقَنَ", which denotes a deep conviction and unwavering belief in the truth and rewards of knowledge. This certainty is crucial in motivating individuals to act upon their knowledge. In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages believers to have certainty in their faith. In Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 15, Allah says,
Indeed, the believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.
This verse emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith and certainty in one's beliefs, which in turn leads to sincere actions.
The Hadith further states that the one who acts upon knowledge is the one who is certain about the greatness of its reward. This highlights the motivation behind implementing knowledge in our lives. When we truly understand and believe in the immense rewards that come with acting upon knowledge, we are more likely to put that knowledge into practice. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly promises great rewards for those who act upon their knowledge in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 277, Allah says,
Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds and establish prayer and give zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.
This verse assures us that those who combine faith with righteous actions will be rewarded abundantly by Allah.
Reflecting on this Hadith, we understand that knowledge alone is not enough; it must be accompanied by action. It is through the implementation of knowledge that we truly benefit from it and attain the rewards promised by Allah. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, reminds us of the importance of certainty in the rewards of knowledge. When we have a deep conviction in the greatness of these rewards, we are motivated to act upon our knowledge and strive for righteousness.
In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to not only seek knowledge but also to implement it in their lives. It emphasizes the importance of certainty in the rewards of knowledge as a driving force behind our actions. By understanding the essence of this Hadith and reflecting upon the supporting Quranic verses, we can strive to become individuals who not only possess knowledge but also act upon it, seeking the pleasure and rewards of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the wisdom and motivation to act upon the knowledge we acquire.
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