Hadith #7362

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 righteous companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

العِلْمُ أصْلُ كُلِّ خَيْر۔

This beautiful saying translates to

Knowledge is the root of every good.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْمُ" in this Hadith refers to the understanding and awareness of various branches of knowledge, including religious, scientific, and practical knowledge. It encompasses both theoretical knowledge and its practical application. Knowledge is not limited to a specific field but encompasses all aspects of life.

The term (root) "أصْلُ" signifies the foundation or basis upon which something is built. It is the fundamental element that gives rise to other branches or aspects. In this context, knowledge is described as the root of every good, indicating that it is the foundation upon which all virtuous actions and deeds are built.

The Quran supports the importance of knowledge in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) 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. It emphasizes the significance of knowledge in guiding individuals towards righteousness and understanding.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

He grants wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been granted wisdom has certainly been given much good. And none will remember except those of understanding.

This verse further emphasizes the value of wisdom and knowledge, highlighting that it is a blessing bestowed upon individuals by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's statement that knowledge is the root of every good holds profound implications. Knowledge serves as a catalyst for personal growth and development. It enables individuals to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood. With knowledge, one can make informed decisions and act in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

Moreover, knowledge empowers individuals to contribute positively to society. It equips them with the tools to address societal challenges, promote justice, and alleviate the suffering of others. For instance, through scientific knowledge, advancements in medicine and technology are made, benefiting humanity as a whole.

Furthermore, knowledge enhances one's relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It allows individuals to comprehend the beauty and intricacies of Allah's creation, deepening their awe and reverence for Him. The more knowledge one acquires about the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the better equipped they are to worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the most sincere and meaningful manner.

Imam Ali's emphasis on knowledge also serves as a reminder of his own exceptional knowledge and wisdom. He was renowned for his profound understanding of Islamic teachings and his ability to provide insightful guidance to the Muslim community. His knowledge was not limited to religious matters but extended to various fields, including jurisprudence, ethics, and governance. Muslims should strive to emulate Imam Ali's dedication to seeking knowledge and his commitment to using it for the betterment of society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of knowledge as the root of every good. It emphasizes the role of knowledge in personal growth, societal progress, and spiritual development. Muslims are encouraged to seek knowledge in all its forms, continuously striving to expand their understanding and apply it in their lives. By doing so, they can contribute to the betterment of themselves, their communities, and the world at large. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and motivation to seek knowledge and use it for the betterment of humanity.