Hadith #7420

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Blessings and peace 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) states,

عِلْمٌ لايَنْفَعُ كَدَواء لايَنْجَعُ۔

which translates to

Knowledge that is not useful is like a medicine that does not cure.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of knowledge that brings about practical benefits and positive outcomes.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word "عِلْمٌ" refers to knowledge, which encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. It is the acquisition of information, understanding, and wisdom. The word "لايَنْفَعُ" means "not useful" or "not beneficial." It signifies knowledge that does not bring about any practical advantages or positive effects. Finally, the word "كَدَواء" refers to medicine, which is intended to cure ailments and provide healing.

To further comprehend the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of beneficial knowledge in several verses. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who do not. It implies that knowledge is a valuable asset that sets individuals apart and enables them to make informed decisions.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:18), Allah states,

Those who listen to the Word, then follow the best thereof: those are the ones whom Allah has guided, and those are the ones endued with understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of not only acquiring knowledge but also implementing it in the best possible manner. It highlights the significance of practical application and the positive outcomes that result from following the guidance of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith draws our attention to the futility of knowledge that does not bring about any practical benefits. It serves as a reminder that knowledge should not be pursued merely for the sake of accumulation, but rather for its transformative power and ability to positively impact our lives and the lives of others.

For example, let us consider the field of medicine. A medicine that does not cure or alleviate the symptoms of a disease is of no use to the patient. Similarly, knowledge that does not bring about positive change or practical benefits is futile. It is essential for Muslims to seek knowledge that is not only theoretical but also applicable in their daily lives, enabling them to make informed decisions, solve problems, and contribute positively to society.

The consequences of pursuing knowledge that is not beneficial are twofold. Firstly, it leads to a waste of time and effort, diverting individuals from acquiring knowledge that can truly make a difference. Secondly, it can result in a lack of impact and influence in one's personal and professional life. Muslims should strive to seek knowledge that is relevant, practical, and aligned with the teachings of Islam, as this will enable them to lead fulfilling lives and positively contribute to society.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge that is beneficial and practical. It highlights the importance of acquiring knowledge that brings about positive outcomes and contributes to personal growth, societal development, and the betterment of humanity. Muslims should strive to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt, who were known for their profound knowledge and its practical application in their lives. May Allah guide us all to seek beneficial knowledge and grant us the wisdom to apply it in the best possible manner.