Hadith #7465

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 Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The basis of knowledge is acting upon it.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and emphasizes the inseparable connection between knowledge and action.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The Arabic word (milāk) "مِلاكُ" refers to the foundation or basis of something. It represents the core principle upon which knowledge is built. The word (al-'ilm) "الْعِلْمِ" means knowledge, encompassing both theoretical and practical knowledge. Finally, (al-'amal bihi) "العَمَلُ بِهِ" translates to "acting upon it," signifying the practical application of knowledge in one's life.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we turn to the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of knowledge and its practical implementation. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 7, Allah says,

He it is Who has revealed the Book to you; some of its verses are decisive, they are the basis of the Book, and others are allegorical; then as for those in whose hearts there is perversity they follow the part of it which is allegorical, seeking to mislead and seeking to give it (their own) interpretation. But none knows its interpretation except Allah, and those who are firmly rooted in knowledge say: We believe in it, it is all from our Lord; and none do mind except those having understanding.

This verse highlights the importance of understanding and firmly rooted knowledge. Those who possess true knowledge recognize the decisive verses of the Quran and act upon them, while those with perverse hearts seek to misinterpret and mislead others. It is clear that knowledge alone is not sufficient; it must be accompanied by action based on a correct understanding.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-Mu'minun, verse 71:

And if the truth had followed their low desires, surely the heavens and the earth and all those who are therein would have perished. Nay! We have brought to them their reminder, but from their reminder they turn aside.

This verse highlights the consequences of neglecting knowledge and acting upon it. If individuals were to follow their base desires without adhering to the truth, chaos and destruction would prevail. However, Allah has sent reminders and guidance to humanity, and it is our responsibility to not turn away from them.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder that knowledge is not meant to be confined to the realms of academia or intellectual discourse alone. It is meant to be implemented in our daily lives, shaping our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. True knowledge is transformative, leading to positive change and spiritual growth.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was the embodiment of knowledge in action. His wisdom, derived from his deep understanding of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), guided his every decision and action. He was known for his justice, compassion, and unwavering commitment to upholding the truth.

As Muslims, we are called to follow in the footsteps of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and strive to acquire knowledge that is not merely theoretical but also practical. We must seek knowledge with the intention of implementing it in our lives, for it is through action that knowledge truly becomes a source of guidance and blessings.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge and the strength to act upon it. May He bless us with the ability to follow the example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and make our knowledge a means of attaining His pleasure and nearness. Ameen.