Hadith #7308

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,

Knowledge is a governor while wealth is governed.

This profound statement highlights the superiority and significance of knowledge over material wealth. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْمُ" in this Hadith refers to the understanding and awareness of the divine teachings and wisdom. It encompasses religious knowledge, intellectual knowledge, and practical knowledge. It is the light that illuminates the path of righteousness and guides Muslims towards success in this world and the Hereafter.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of knowledge in numerous verses of the Quran. For example, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who are ignorant. It emphasizes that knowledge elevates individuals and grants them a higher status in the sight of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah states,

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

This verse indicates that knowledge is a means of elevation and honor in the sight of Allah. It is through knowledge that individuals are raised to higher spiritual ranks and attain closeness to Allah.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that wealth is (governed) "مَحْكُومٌ عَلَيْهِ". This means that wealth is subject to the control and regulation of individuals. It is a temporary possession that can be acquired and lost. While wealth can provide comfort and facilitate worldly affairs, it does not possess inherent value or bring true happiness and contentment.

The Quran also emphasizes the temporary nature of wealth and its limited significance. In Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), Allah says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children.

This verse reminds Muslims that the material possessions of this world are merely temporary distractions that should not divert them from the pursuit of knowledge and the remembrance of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that knowledge holds a superior position over wealth. Knowledge is a source of empowerment, enlightenment, and guidance. It enables individuals to make informed decisions, seek the truth, and fulfill their responsibilities towards Allah and humanity.

In contrast, wealth is a means to an end, a tool that can be used for good or evil depending on how it is acquired and utilized. It is important for Muslims to recognize that wealth should be governed by the principles of justice, generosity, and compassion. It should be used to benefit society, alleviate the suffering of others, and support noble causes.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also highlights the responsibility of those who possess knowledge. As governors, they have a duty to guide and lead others towards righteousness. They should utilize their knowledge to educate, inspire, and uplift their communities. They should strive to eradicate ignorance, promote justice, and establish a society based on the principles of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the superiority of knowledge over wealth. It reminds Muslims that knowledge is a divine gift that should be cherished, pursued, and utilized for the betterment of society. Wealth, on the other hand, should be governed by the principles of justice and compassion. Muslims should strive to acquire knowledge, seek wisdom, and utilize their wealth in a manner that pleases Allah and benefits humanity. May Allah grant us the wisdom and understanding to prioritize knowledge and utilize wealth in a righteous manner.