Hadith #6742

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

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The smallest amount of cognizance leads to disinclination towards worldly pleasures (or corruption of one’s actions).

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of knowledge and its impact on our actions and desires.

Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. The word (ma'rifah) "مَعْرِفَةِ" refers to knowledge or cognizance. It implies a deep understanding and awareness of the truth. The word (zuhd) "زُّهْدَ" means disinclination or detachment from worldly pleasures. It signifies a state of contentment with minimal material possessions and a focus on the spiritual aspect of life. The phrase (fasad al-'amal) "فَسادَ العَمَلِ" refers to the corruption or degradation of one's actions.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Taghabun (64:9),

The Day when He will gather you for the Day of Assembly - that is the Day of Deprivation. And whoever believes in Allah and does righteousness - He will remove from him his misdeeds and admit him to gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever. That is the great attainment.

This verse highlights the importance of belief in Allah and righteous actions. It emphasizes that true success lies in the hereafter, not in worldly possessions or pleasures. Those who possess knowledge and act upon it will be rewarded with the removal of their misdeeds and eternal bliss in Paradise.

Another verse that supports the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

This verse reminds us that the pleasures and attractions of this world are temporary and fleeting. They are like a passing rain that brings temporary growth but eventually withers away. The true purpose of life lies in seeking forgiveness from Allah and striving for His approval. Knowledge plays a crucial role in recognizing the transient nature of worldly pleasures and redirecting our focus towards the eternal rewards of the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement in this Hadith highlights the profound impact that even a small amount of knowledge can have on an individual. It serves as a catalyst for disinclination towards worldly pleasures and corruption of one's actions. When one acquires knowledge, they become aware of the transitory nature of worldly possessions and the importance of prioritizing their actions in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

For example, a person who gains knowledge about the impermanence of material wealth and the significance of acts of charity may be inclined to give generously to those in need, rather than hoarding their wealth for personal gain. Similarly, a person who understands the importance of honesty and integrity in Islam may be motivated to uphold these values in their personal and professional lives, even in the face of temptation.

The consequences of this cognizance are twofold. Firstly, it leads to disinclination towards worldly pleasures. This means that one becomes less attached to material possessions and desires, recognizing their temporary nature and focusing instead on spiritual growth and the pursuit of the hereafter. Secondly, it prevents the corruption of one's actions. Knowledge acts as a safeguard, guiding individuals to make choices that align with the teachings of Islam and avoiding actions that may lead to sin or harm.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the transformative power of knowledge. Even a small amount of cognizance can lead to disinclination towards worldly pleasures and the corruption of one's actions. By gaining knowledge and understanding the teachings of Islam, Muslims can redirect their focus towards the eternal rewards of the hereafter and strive to live a life of righteousness and piety. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek knowledge and act upon it, and may He guide us on the straight path.