Hadith #7576

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and acting upon it. It states,

Gain knowledge and you will be known by it, act upon it and you will be one of its worthy possessors.

This enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the significance of knowledge and its transformative power in the life of a Muslim.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith by exploring the key words and their meanings. The word (ta'allamoo) "تَعَلَّمُوا" means to seek knowledge, to learn, and to acquire understanding. It implies a proactive effort on the part of the individual to gain knowledge. The word (al-'ilm) "العِلْمَ" refers to knowledge, encompassing both religious and worldly knowledge. It signifies the acquisition of information, comprehension, and wisdom.

The Hadith further states, (tu'rafu bihi) "تُعْرَفُوا بِهِ", which means that by gaining knowledge, one becomes known and recognized. This recognition is not merely in the eyes of people, but also in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When a person seeks knowledge and acts upon it, their character and conduct reflect the virtues and teachings of Islam. As a result, they become known for their wisdom, piety, and righteousness.

To support the importance of seeking knowledge, the Quran provides numerous verses that highlight its significance. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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

This verse emphasizes the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It implies that knowledge elevates an individual's status and understanding, distinguishing them from others.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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

This verse highlights that knowledge is a means of elevation and honor in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through knowledge that individuals are raised in ranks and rewarded.

The second part of the Hadith emphasizes the importance of acting upon the acquired knowledge. It states, (wa'amaloo bihi takoonoo min ahlihi)

واعْمَلُوا بِهِ تَكُونُوا مِنْ أهْلِهِ

which means that by practicing and implementing knowledge, one becomes worthy of it. Mere acquisition of knowledge is not sufficient; it must be applied in one's actions and behavior.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of righteous actions alongside knowledge. In Surah Al-Asr (103:3), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Except for those who believe and do righteous deeds and advise each other to truth and advise each other to patience.

This verse highlights the inseparable connection between faith, righteous actions, and the pursuit of truth. Knowledge without action is incomplete and ineffective.

The consequences of seeking knowledge and acting upon it are profound. By gaining knowledge and implementing it in our lives, we become individuals who are recognized for their wisdom, piety, and righteousness. Our actions become a reflection of our knowledge, and we become worthy possessors of it. This not only benefits us individually, but it also positively impacts our communities and society as a whole.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of continuously seeking knowledge and applying it in our lives. It is through knowledge that we can grow spiritually, intellectually, and morally. By acting upon our knowledge, we become true followers of Islam, embodying its teachings and values. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek knowledge, act upon it, and be counted among its worthy possessors.