Hadith #6751

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

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ عَرَفَ اللّهَ كَمُلَتْ مَعْرِفَتُهُ۔

This can be translated as,

Whoever knows Allah, his cognizance is complete.

Let us delve into the significance of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (arafa) "عَرَفَ" in this Hadith means to know or recognize. It signifies a deep and intimate knowledge that goes beyond mere awareness. It implies a personal connection and understanding of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This knowledge is not limited to intellectual comprehension, but it encompasses a spiritual and experiential understanding of the Divine.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of knowing Him in the Quran. In Surah Al-Hujurat, Allah says, (49:13)

Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse highlights Allah's comprehensive knowledge and awareness of all things. It reminds us that true knowledge can only be attained through a deep connection with Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah states, (2:30)

And when your Lord said to the angels, 'Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority.' They said, 'Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?' Allah said, 'Indeed, I know that which you do not know.'

This verse illustrates Allah's profound knowledge and wisdom. It emphasizes that true knowledge comes from Allah alone and that human understanding is limited.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further states that when one truly knows Allah, their cognizance is complete. This means that their understanding of the Divine is comprehensive and all-encompassing. It goes beyond mere intellectual knowledge and extends to the depths of their heart and soul.

When a person truly knows Allah, their entire perspective on life changes. They recognize the greatness and majesty of Allah, and this knowledge shapes their thoughts, actions, and decisions. They understand that everything in the universe is under the control and guidance of Allah. This knowledge brings about a sense of humility, gratitude, and reliance on Allah.

Knowing Allah also leads to a deep sense of trust and contentment. The individual understands that everything that happens in their life is part of Allah's divine plan. They have faith that Allah's wisdom and knowledge surpass their own, and they submit to His will with complete trust and surrender.

Moreover, knowing Allah brings about a profound sense of love and devotion. The individual recognizes the countless blessings and favors bestowed upon them by Allah. They develop a deep love for Allah and strive to please Him in all aspects of their life. This love becomes the driving force behind their actions and motivates them to seek closeness to Allah through acts of worship and obedience.

The consequences of knowing Allah are transformative. It leads to a life filled with purpose, peace, and tranquility. The individual becomes more conscious of their actions and strives to align themselves with the teachings of Islam. They seek knowledge and understanding of the Quran and the Sunnah, and they apply these teachings in their daily lives.

Knowing Allah also instills a sense of responsibility towards others. The individual recognizes that all human beings are created by Allah and are deserving of respect, compassion, and justice. They strive to embody the qualities of mercy, kindness, and generosity, following the example set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of truly knowing Allah. It is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a deep and intimate connection with the Divine. This knowledge transforms an individual's perspective, actions, and character. It brings about a sense of humility, trust, love, and responsibility. May Allah grant us all the ability to truly know Him and may our cognizance be complete.