Hadith #7498

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,

العالِمُ والمُتَعَلِّمُ شَريكانِ فِي الأجْرِ، وَلاخَيْرَ فيما بَيْنَ ذلِكَ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the partnership in reward between the scholar and the student, and it also highlights the lack of goodness in anything that comes between them.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this Hadith by examining the key words and concepts it presents. The word (scholar) "عالِمُ" refers to a person who possesses knowledge and understanding in a particular field. This knowledge can be religious, scientific, or any other form of expertise. The word (student) "مُتَعَلِّمُ" refers to an individual who seeks knowledge and is in the process of learning from a scholar or a teacher.

The Hadith states that the scholar and the student are partners in reward. This means that both the scholar and the student will receive equal reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) for their efforts in seeking and imparting knowledge. This partnership in reward highlights the importance of both roles in the pursuit of knowledge. The scholar, with their expertise, guides and imparts knowledge to the student, who in turn benefits from this knowledge and applies it in their life. This mutual exchange of knowledge and learning is a source of reward for both parties.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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

This verse highlights the superiority of knowledge and the elevated status of those who possess it. It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and the distinction it brings to individuals.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great good.

This verse emphasizes that wisdom and knowledge are gifts from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and those who are blessed with it are bestowed with great goodness. It further reinforces the significance of knowledge and the value it holds in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Now, let us reflect on the consequences and implications of this Hadith. The partnership in reward between the scholar and the student encourages a harmonious relationship between them. The scholar, with their knowledge and expertise, guides the student on the right path, helping them to acquire knowledge and understanding. The student, in turn, benefits from the scholar's guidance and applies the knowledge gained in their life. This partnership fosters a cycle of learning and growth, benefiting both individuals and the wider community.

Furthermore, this Hadith highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and the continuous pursuit of learning. It emphasizes that there is no goodness in anything that comes between the scholar and the student. This implies that any obstacles, such as ego, envy, or competition, that hinder the exchange of knowledge and learning are detrimental and should be avoided. The focus should be on seeking knowledge and benefiting from the wisdom of the scholars, rather than engaging in disputes or conflicts that divert from the true purpose of seeking knowledge.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the partnership in reward between the scholar and the student. It highlights the importance of seeking knowledge, the value of wisdom, and the significance of the scholar-student relationship. This Hadith encourages a harmonious exchange of knowledge and learning, while discouraging any obstacles that may hinder this partnership. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with knowledge and understanding and enable us to be both scholars and students in our pursuit of knowledge.