Hadith #7383

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he highlights the relationship between knowledge, etiquette, and awe for Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith, exploring its meanings and implications in light of the Quran.

The Hadith begins with the statement,

When the knowledge of a person increases.

Here, the word "knowledge" is translated from the Arabic term (ilm) "عِلْمُ". This term encompasses not only intellectual knowledge but also spiritual and moral understanding. It refers to the acquisition of knowledge through various means, such as studying the Quran, Hadith, and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِمُ ٱلسَّلَامُ).

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states, "his etiquette improves." The word "etiquette" is derived from the Arabic term (adabuhu) "أدَبُهُ", which refers to one's behavior, manners, and conduct. It encompasses both external actions and internal states of the heart. When a person increases in knowledge, it naturally leads to the refinement of their character and conduct. This is because true knowledge enlightens the mind, purifies the soul, and guides one towards righteousness.

The Hadith further states,

and his awe for his Lord increases.

The word "awe" is translated from the Arabic term (khashyatuhu) "خَشْيَتُهُ", which signifies a deep sense of reverence, fear, and humility towards Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). As one's knowledge expands, their understanding of the greatness and majesty of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) deepens. This profound awareness of Allah's attributes and power instills a sense of awe and reverence within the heart of the believer.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11),

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse emphasizes that knowledge is a means of elevation and honor in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). As individuals increase in knowledge, they are elevated in their status and rank in the eyes of Allah.

In Surah Al-Quran (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who are ignorant. Those who possess knowledge are not equal to those who lack it. Knowledge brings enlightenment, guidance, and a deeper understanding of the divine wisdom.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Anfal (8:29), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, if you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion and will remove from you your misdeeds and forgive you.

This verse emphasizes that the fear of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) leads to His mercy, forgiveness, and guidance. When a person increases in knowledge, their fear of Allah intensifies, leading to a greater sense of accountability and a desire to seek His pleasure.

In light of these Quranic verses, we can understand the profound wisdom behind Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. When a person increases in knowledge, their etiquette improves because they become aware of the proper conduct and behavior expected of them as Muslims. This knowledge guides them to act in accordance with the teachings of Islam, treating others with kindness, respect, and compassion.

Additionally, as their knowledge expands, their awe for Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) increases. They become more conscious of His presence, His attributes, and His commandments. This heightened awareness instills a deep sense of reverence and humility within their hearts, motivating them to strive for righteousness and to avoid actions that displease Allah.

In conclusion, this Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the transformative power of knowledge. It highlights the inseparable connection between knowledge, etiquette, and awe for Allah. As Muslims, we should strive to increase our knowledge, not only in terms of intellectual understanding but also in terms of spiritual and moral growth. By doing so, we can improve our character, conduct ourselves with excellence, and develop a profound reverence for our Lord. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek knowledge and to embody its teachings in our lives.