Hadith #7314

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he states,

الْعِلْمُ أوَّلُ دَلِيل، وَالْمَعْرِفَةُ آخِرُ نِهَايَةٍ

which translates to

Knowledge is the first guide and cognizance is the final end.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْمُ" refers to the acquisition of information, facts, and understanding. It encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. Knowledge is the foundation upon which guidance is built. It is the light that illuminates the path of righteousness and leads us towards the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), 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 superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant.

On the other hand, the word (cognizance) "مَعْرِفَةُ" refers to deep awareness, recognition, and understanding of the truth. It goes beyond mere knowledge and encompasses the practical application of knowledge in one's life. Cognizance is the ultimate goal of seeking knowledge. It is the realization and internalization of the divine teachings, leading to a profound connection with Allah and a righteous way of life. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah says,

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 knowing and recognizing one another, which can only be achieved through true cognizance.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement emphasizes the sequential nature of knowledge and cognizance. Knowledge serves as the initial step towards guidance, while cognizance represents the ultimate destination. Without knowledge, one cannot embark on the path of righteousness. It is through the acquisition of knowledge that one gains the necessary tools to navigate through the complexities of life. However, knowledge alone is not sufficient. It must be accompanied by cognizance, which involves internalizing and implementing that knowledge in one's actions and decisions.

For instance, the Quran states in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),

And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (consciousness of Allah). So fear Me, O you of understanding.

This verse highlights the importance of not only acquiring provisions for a journey but also cultivating Taqwa, which is the practical manifestation of cognizance. Similarly, in Surah Al-Imran (3:190-191), Allah says,

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding. Who remember Allah while standing or sitting or [lying] on their sides and give thought to the creation of the heavens and the earth, [saying], 'Our Lord, You did not create this aimlessly; exalted are You [above such a thing]; then protect us from the punishment of the Fire.'

These verses highlight the importance of reflecting upon the signs of Allah's creation and remembering Him in various states. This reflection and remembrance can only be achieved through cognizance, which is the ultimate goal of seeking knowledge.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for all Muslims to continuously seek knowledge and strive for true cognizance. It is not enough to merely accumulate information; rather, we must internalize and implement that knowledge in our lives. Knowledge without cognizance is like a lamp without a flame, while cognizance without knowledge is like a flame without a lamp. Both are incomplete and ineffective.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the sequential nature of knowledge and cognizance. Knowledge is the foundation upon which guidance is built, while cognizance represents the ultimate goal of seeking knowledge. It is through the acquisition of knowledge and the practical application of that knowledge in our lives that we can attain true cognizance and a deep connection with Allah. May Allah grant us the ability to seek knowledge and attain true cognizance.