Hadith #7489

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "Knowledge needs forbearance." This short but impactful saying emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْمُ" in this Hadith refers to the understanding and awareness of the truth. It encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. Knowledge is a powerful tool that enables individuals to navigate through life and make informed decisions. It is a means of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and fulfilling our purpose as Muslims.

The word (forbearance) "حِلْمِ" in this Hadith refers to patience, self-control, and the ability to remain calm in the face of challenges and difficulties. It is the quality of restraining oneself from reacting impulsively or hastily. Forbearance is essential in the pursuit of knowledge because it allows individuals to overcome obstacles, endure hardships, and persist in their quest for understanding.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that highlight the importance of knowledge and the virtues of forbearance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:155-156)

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient, who, when disaster strikes them, say, 'Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return'

This verse emphasizes the need for patience and forbearance in times of difficulty. It reminds us that tests and trials are a part of life, and it is through patience and reliance on Allah that we can overcome them. Similarly, in Surah Al-Asr, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 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 importance of patience and perseverance in the pursuit of righteousness. It reminds us that true success lies in faith, good deeds, and the ability to advise one another with patience.

Now, let us reflect on the beautiful message of this Hadith. Knowledge is not acquired overnight; it requires time, effort, and dedication. It is a journey that demands patience and forbearance. When faced with challenges or setbacks in our pursuit of knowledge, we must remain steadfast and persevere. We should not be discouraged by difficulties or setbacks, but rather use them as opportunities for growth and learning.

For example, when studying a complex subject, we may encounter obstacles that make it difficult to understand. It is during these moments that forbearance becomes crucial. Instead of giving up or becoming frustrated, we should exercise patience and continue to seek knowledge through various means, such as consulting scholars, reading books, or engaging in discussions with knowledgeable individuals.

Furthermore, forbearance is not only important in the process of acquiring knowledge but also in its application. When imparting knowledge to others, we must exercise patience and understanding. We should be tolerant of differing opinions and perspectives, and engage in respectful dialogue. By doing so, we create an environment that fosters learning and growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that knowledge is not easily attained; it requires patience, perseverance, and forbearance. Through the Quranic verses, we understand that patience is a virtue that is rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and is essential in facing life's challenges. As Muslims, we should strive to embody these qualities in our pursuit of knowledge and in our interactions with others. May Allah grant us the patience and wisdom to seek knowledge and benefit from it.