Hadith #7423

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings 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,

غايَةُ الْعِلْمِ حُسْنُ العَمَلِ۔

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali highlights the ultimate purpose and goal of knowledge, which is to manifest itself in righteous and virtuous actions. Let us delve deeper into the meanings and implications of this wise utterance in light of the Quran.

The word (ghayah) "غايَةُ" in the Hadith refers to the ultimate objective or goal. It signifies the purpose for which something is sought or pursued. In this context, it refers to the ultimate objective of knowledge. The word (ilm) "الْعِلْمِ" means knowledge, encompassing both religious and worldly knowledge. It is the acquisition of information, understanding, and awareness.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states that the ultimate goal of knowledge is (husn al-amal) "حُسْنُ العَمَلِ", which translates to good or righteous action. This implies that knowledge should not remain theoretical or confined to intellectual pursuits alone. Rather, it should translate into practical deeds that benefit oneself and others, and that align with the teachings of Islam.

The Quranic verses support and emphasize the importance of combining knowledge with good action. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3),

By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse highlights the significance of both belief and righteous deeds. Knowledge without action is futile, as it does not bring about any positive change in an individual or society.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:83), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) mentions the story of the Israelites who received knowledge but failed to act upon it. He says,

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse serves as a reminder that knowledge without action leads to deviation and disobedience. It is not enough to possess knowledge; one must also implement it in their daily lives. The true value of knowledge lies in its ability to transform individuals and societies for the better.

Imam Ali's statement also highlights the importance of sincerity in our actions. Good actions must be performed with the intention of seeking Allah's pleasure and not for worldly recognition or personal gain. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Kahf (18:110),

Say, 'I am only a man like you, to whom has been revealed that your god is one God. So whoever would hope for the meeting with his Lord - let him do righteous work and not associate in the worship of his Lord anyone.'

This verse emphasizes that true righteousness is rooted in sincere belief and devotion to Allah alone. Knowledge should lead us to develop a deep connection with our Creator and inspire us to perform actions that are pleasing to Him.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the ultimate goal of knowledge is not mere intellectual pursuit, but rather the transformation of our actions and character. It reminds us that knowledge should be accompanied by righteous deeds, performed with sincerity and for the sake of Allah. By combining knowledge with good action, we can fulfill our purpose as Muslims and strive towards attaining the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah grant us the ability to seek knowledge and act upon it in the best possible manner.