Hadith #7452

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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) states,

One whose knowledge exceeds his intellect, it becomes a burden for him.

This profound statement highlights the importance of balance and wisdom in acquiring and utilizing knowledge.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this hadith to gain a better understanding. The word (zada) "زادَ" means to increase or exceed, while (ilmuhu) "عِلْمُهُ" refers to one's knowledge. (ala) "عَلى" means upon or over, and (aqlihi) "عَقْلِهِ" refers to one's intellect or reasoning.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is cautioning us that when our knowledge surpasses our ability to comprehend and apply it wisely, it can become a burden. This can occur when one becomes overwhelmed by the vastness of knowledge and fails to properly understand its implications.

To further understand the wisdom behind this hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:286)

Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear

This verse reminds us that Allah is aware of our capabilities and does not place upon us a burden that we cannot handle.

When we acquire knowledge without the necessary understanding and wisdom, it can lead to confusion, arrogance, and even misguidance. The burden of knowledge becomes heavy when we are unable to properly utilize it for the benefit of ourselves and others. It is important to remember that true knowledge is not just about accumulating information, but also about its proper application and implementation.

In Surah Al-Jathiyah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 34:6)

And those who are given knowledge see that what is revealed to you from your Lord is the truth, and it guides to the path of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy

This verse emphasizes the importance of knowledge that leads to guidance and righteousness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is reminding us that knowledge should be accompanied by wisdom and understanding. It is not enough to simply possess knowledge; we must also have the ability to apply it in a manner that aligns with the teachings of Islam. Knowledge should be a means to strengthen our faith, improve our character, and benefit society as a whole.

When knowledge exceeds one's intellect, it can lead to arrogance and a false sense of superiority. This can result in the misuse of knowledge, causing harm to oneself and others. It is essential to approach knowledge with humility and a sincere intention to seek the truth and benefit humanity.

In conclusion, the hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge with wisdom and understanding. It warns against the dangers of acquiring knowledge without the ability to comprehend and apply it appropriately. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge that benefits us in this world and the Hereafter, and may He protect us from the burden of knowledge that exceeds our intellect.