Hadith #7586

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of not engaging in discussions or sharing knowledge with those who are ignorant and unaware. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to refrain from speaking about matters that the ignorant ones do not understand, as they may reject or deny the knowledge we present to them.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (juhala) "جُهَّالَ" refers to the ignorant ones, those lacking knowledge or understanding. It is important to note that Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) does not dismiss the importance of educating others, but rather advises against sharing knowledge with those who are not receptive or deserving of it.

The phrase (fa innā li'ilmi-ka 'alayka ḥaqqan)

فَإِنَّ لِعِلْمِكَ عَلَيْكَ حَقًّا

highlights the responsibility and obligation that comes with possessing knowledge. Our knowledge has a right over us, meaning that we are duty-bound to utilize and share it in a manner that aligns with its true purpose. This emphasizes the importance of using knowledge for the betterment of society and for the sake of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:5), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

The example of those who were entrusted with the Torah and then did not take it on is like that of a donkey who carries volumes [of books]. Wretched is the example of the people who deny the signs of Allah. And Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.

This verse highlights the importance of not only possessing knowledge but also acting upon it. Knowledge without implementation is akin to carrying books without understanding their contents.

Another verse that supports the message of this Hadith is found in Surah Al-A'raf (7:175), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And recite to them the news of him to whom We gave [knowledge of] Our signs, but he detached himself from them; so Satan pursued him, and he became of the deviators.

This verse serves as a reminder that knowledge can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how it is utilized. If one detaches themselves from the guidance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fails to share knowledge with those deserving of it, they may fall into the traps of Satan and deviate from the right path.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith is rooted in wisdom and foresight. By refraining from engaging in discussions with the ignorant, we protect ourselves from potential misunderstandings, false accusations, and the distortion of knowledge. This approach ensures that knowledge is shared with those who are receptive and deserving, leading to positive outcomes and the preservation of its true essence.

Moreover, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages us to discern the deserving recipients of knowledge and to bestow it upon them. This aligns with the Quranic principle of (wa ta'āwanū 'alā al-birri wa al-taqwā)

وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَىٰ

- cooperating in righteousness and piety (Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:2). By sharing knowledge with those who are deserving, we contribute to the betterment of society and fulfill our duty as Muslims.

Conversely, denying knowledge to those who are not deserving of it is a means of protecting the sanctity and integrity of knowledge. This prevents its misuse or misinterpretation by those who may exploit it for personal gain or propagate falsehoods. It is essential to exercise discernment and wisdom in determining who is deserving of knowledge, ensuring that it is utilized for the greater good and in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with possessing knowledge. It urges us to be mindful of whom we share knowledge with, ensuring that it is bestowed upon those who are deserving and receptive. By adhering to this advice, we protect the integrity of knowledge, contribute to the betterment of society, and fulfill our duty as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us wisdom and understanding in the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge.