Hadith #7330

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of knowledge in Islam. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense wisdom and knowledge, states that the most important knowledge for a Muslim is that which is necessary for their good actions to be accepted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Let us delve into the important words of this Hadith. The word (awla) "أوْلَى" means "most important" or "prioritized." It emphasizes the significance of the knowledge that is being referred to. The word (al-'ilm) "العِلْمِ" means "knowledge," which encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. The word (yutaqabbalu) "يُتَقَبَّلُ" means "accepted" or "approved." It signifies that certain actions require specific knowledge for them to be accepted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To understand the depth of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, the ultimate source of guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 5:27)

And recite to them the story of Adam's two sons, in truth, when they both offered a sacrifice [to Allah], and it was accepted from one of them but was not accepted from the other. Said [the latter], 'I will surely kill you.' Said [the former], 'Indeed, Allah only accepts from the righteous [who fear Him].'

This ayah highlights the importance of having the right knowledge and intention behind our actions. The sacrifice of both sons was an act of worship, but only the sacrifice of the righteous son was accepted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This demonstrates that even acts of worship require the proper knowledge and sincerity to be accepted.

Another relevant ayah is found in Surah Al-Mu'minun, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 23:1-7)

Indeed successful are the believers, who are humble in their prayers, and who turn away from ill speech, and who are observant of Zakah. And those who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors.

This ayah emphasizes the importance of following the prescribed actions and limits set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights that true success lies in adhering to the knowledge and guidance provided by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in matters of worship, speech, charity, and relationships. Without the necessary knowledge, our actions may deviate from the path of righteousness.

Reflecting on the Hadith, we understand that it is not sufficient to merely perform good actions. We must also seek the knowledge that is essential for those actions to be accepted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). For example, performing the prayer is a fundamental act of worship, but without the knowledge of its proper performance, including the correct recitation, movements, and intentions, our prayer may not be accepted.

Similarly, acts of charity, fasting, and other acts of worship require the knowledge of their specific requirements and conditions for them to be accepted. Without this knowledge, our actions may lack sincerity, correctness, and adherence to the teachings of Islam.

The consequences of neglecting the necessary knowledge can be grave. Our actions may become void of spiritual benefits, and we may miss out on the rewards and blessings promised by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Furthermore, without the proper knowledge, we may unknowingly engage in actions that are prohibited or harmful, leading to negative consequences in this life and the hereafter.

Therefore, as Muslims, it is crucial for us to seek knowledge and strive to understand the teachings of Islam. We should study the Quran, the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and the wisdom of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By doing so, we equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge to ensure that our actions are accepted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge that is essential for our actions to be accepted by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reminds us that true success lies not only in performing good deeds but also in acquiring the necessary knowledge to ensure their acceptance. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and understanding to seek knowledge and apply it in our lives.