Hadith #7445

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Mani istarshada al-'ilma arshadahu.

This Hadith can be translated as,

One who seeks right guidance from knowledge, it guides him.

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

Firstly, let us explore the key words in this Hadith. The word "istarshada" is derived from the root word "rushd," which means guidance or righteousness. It signifies the act of seeking or attaining guidance. The word "al-'ilm" refers to knowledge, specifically the knowledge that leads to guidance and righteousness.

The importance of seeking guidance from knowledge is emphasized in the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:18),

Those who listen to the Word (of Allah) and follow the best of it; those are the ones whom Allah has guided, and those are the ones possessed of understanding.

This verse highlights the significance of actively seeking knowledge and following the best of it, as it leads to guidance from Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good. And none will remember except those of understanding.

This verse emphasizes that true wisdom and guidance come from Allah, and it is bestowed upon those who possess understanding.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the importance of actively seeking knowledge and using it as a means of guidance. Knowledge is not merely an intellectual pursuit but a means to attain righteousness and navigate through the complexities of life. It is through knowledge that one can discern between right and wrong, make informed decisions, and lead a righteous life.

When one seeks guidance from knowledge, it becomes a guiding light in their life. It illuminates their path, helps them make wise choices, and enables them to navigate through the challenges they face. Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions based on principles and values derived from the teachings of Islam.

For example, when faced with a moral dilemma, a person who has sought guidance from knowledge will be able to make a decision that aligns with the teachings of Islam. They will be able to draw upon their understanding of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to make choices that are in line with the principles of justice, compassion, and righteousness.

Moreover, seeking guidance from knowledge has far-reaching consequences. It not only benefits the individual but also has a positive impact on society as a whole. When individuals seek knowledge and use it as a means of guidance, they become beacons of light, spreading wisdom and righteousness in their communities. They become role models who inspire others to seek knowledge and follow the path of righteousness.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from knowledge. It highlights that knowledge, when sought with the intention of attaining guidance, becomes a guiding light in one's life. By actively seeking knowledge and using it as a means of guidance, individuals can make informed decisions, lead righteous lives, and positively impact society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge and use it as a means of guidance.