Hadith #8486

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,

آفَةُ الفُقَهاءِ عَدَمُ الصِّيانَةِ۔

This can be translated as,

The bane of scholars is not safeguarding themselves [from error].

This enlightening saying highlights the importance of scholars and their responsibility to protect themselves from falling into error.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (bane) "آفَةُ" refers to something that causes harm or destruction. It implies a negative consequence or outcome. The term (scholars) "الفُقَهاءِ" refers to those who possess deep knowledge and understanding of Islamic jurisprudence and principles. These scholars are entrusted with the task of guiding the Muslim community and providing them with correct interpretations of religious teachings.

The phrase (not safeguarding themselves) "عَدَمُ الصِّيانَةِ" emphasizes the need for scholars to be vigilant and cautious in their pursuit of knowledge. It highlights the importance of continuously seeking guidance and ensuring that their interpretations align with the teachings of Islam. Scholars must constantly strive to protect themselves from falling into error, as any mistakes they make can have far-reaching consequences for the Muslim community.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:7),

He it is Who has revealed the Book to you; some of its verses are decisive, they are the basis of the Book, and others are allegorical; then as for those in whose hearts there is perversity they follow the part of it which is allegorical, seeking to mislead and seeking to give it (their own) interpretation.

This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking clarity and avoiding misinterpretation of the Quranic verses.

Another verse that sheds light on the responsibility of scholars is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the need for scholars to thoroughly investigate and verify information before spreading it, as their words have the power to influence and impact the lives of others.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder to scholars that they bear a great responsibility in guiding the Muslim community. They must strive to safeguard themselves from error by continuously seeking knowledge, consulting with other scholars, and adhering to the principles of the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Failure to do so can lead to confusion, misguidance, and division among the Muslims. Scholars must be aware of the consequences of their actions and the potential harm that can result from their mistakes. By safeguarding themselves and ensuring the accuracy of their interpretations, scholars can fulfill their duty of guiding the Muslim community and preserving the true teachings of Islam.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of scholars in Islam and their responsibility to safeguard themselves from error. It serves as a reminder that scholars must continuously seek knowledge, adhere to the principles of the Quran, and consult with other scholars to ensure the accuracy of their interpretations. By doing so, they can fulfill their duty of guiding the Muslim community and preserving the true teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us all the ability to seek knowledge and understand His religion correctly.