Hadith #7581

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 pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who gains knowledge so that he can act upon it is not distressed by its dullness.

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge with the intention of implementing it in our lives. Let us delve into the connotation of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (gains knowledge) "تَعَلَّمَ العِلْمَ" and (so that he can act upon it) "لِلْعَمَلِ بِهِ". The word "تَعَلَّمَ" refers to the acquisition of knowledge, which involves seeking, learning, and understanding. It is a continuous process that requires effort and dedication. The word "عِلْمَ" refers to knowledge in general, encompassing both religious and worldly knowledge.

The phrase "لِلْعَمَلِ بِهِ" emphasizes the purpose of acquiring knowledge, which is to put it into practice. It highlights the importance of not just gaining theoretical knowledge, but also applying it in our daily lives. This practical implementation is what distinguishes a true seeker of knowledge from one who merely accumulates information.

The Quran provides numerous verses that emphasize the significance of seeking knowledge and acting upon it. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge and act upon it over those who remain ignorant.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Imran (3:79), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

It is not for a human [prophet] that Allah should give him the Scripture and authority and prophethood and then he would say to the people, 'Be servants to me rather than Allah,' but [instead, he would say], 'Be pious scholars of the Lord because of what you have taught of the Scripture and because of what you have studied.'

This verse emphasizes the responsibility of scholars to act as guides and leaders, teaching people the knowledge they have acquired and setting an example through their actions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the motivation and mindset of a true seeker of knowledge. Such a person is not discouraged or distressed by the difficulties or challenges that may arise in the process of gaining knowledge. They understand that knowledge is not meant to be a mere intellectual pursuit, but a transformative force that shapes their character and actions.

For example, a person who studies the Quran and learns about the importance of honesty will not be content with merely knowing its value. They will actively strive to embody honesty in their interactions, be it in their personal or professional life. This practical application of knowledge brings about positive change and elevates the individual's spiritual growth.

Conversely, a person who gains knowledge but fails to act upon it may fall into the trap of hypocrisy. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) warns against this in Surah Al-Munafiqun (63:1-2),

When the hypocrites come to you, [O Muhammad], they say, 'We testify that you are the Messenger of Allah.' And Allah knows that you are His Messenger, and Allah testifies that the hypocrites are liars. They have taken their oaths as a cover, so they avert [people] from the way of Allah. Indeed, it was evil that they were doing.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge with the intention of implementing it in their lives. It emphasizes the importance of not being discouraged by the challenges that may arise in the pursuit of knowledge. By acting upon the knowledge we acquire, we can truly benefit from its transformative power and become individuals who embody the teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to seek knowledge and act upon it.