Hadith #4669

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "اِسْألْ تَعْلَمْ۔" which translates to

Ask and you will learn.

This concise statement holds profound wisdom and guidance for all Muslims seeking knowledge and understanding.

Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran. The word (ask) "اِسْألْ" comes from the root word "سأل" which means to inquire, seek, or request. It implies an active engagement with seeking knowledge, whether it be through questioning, studying, or exploring. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages us to be curious and inquisitive, to never shy away from seeking knowledge. This is in line with the Quranic verse in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), where Allah says,

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

The second part of the Hadith, (you will learn) "تَعْلَمْ", emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge as a means of personal growth and development. The word "تَعْلَمْ" is derived from the root word "علم" which means knowledge. It signifies the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. In Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah also says,

Indeed, those who fear Allah - when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember [Him] and at once they have insight.

This insight and understanding can only be attained through seeking knowledge and continuously learning.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, encourages us to ask questions and seek knowledge in order to expand our understanding of the world around us. By actively engaging in the pursuit of knowledge, we open ourselves up to new perspectives, ideas, and insights. This aligns with the Quranic verse in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:7), where Allah says,

And We sent not before you, [O Muhammad], except men to whom We revealed [the message], so ask the people of the message if you do not know.

When we ask questions and seek knowledge, we not only gain a deeper understanding of the world, but we also strengthen our connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding as a means of drawing closer to Allah. In Surah Al-Ankabut (29:43), Allah says,

And these examples We present to the people, but none will understand them except those of knowledge.

By seeking knowledge, we develop a greater appreciation for the signs of Allah's creation and His divine wisdom.

The consequences of following the guidance of this Hadith are immense. By actively seeking knowledge, we become individuals who are well-informed, critical thinkers, and seekers of truth. We become better equipped to navigate the challenges of life and make informed decisions. Furthermore, seeking knowledge fosters personal growth and self-improvement, as it enables us to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and our purpose in this world.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "اِسْألْ تَعْلَمْ۔" encourages us to actively seek knowledge and understanding. By asking questions and engaging in the pursuit of knowledge, we not only expand our understanding of the world but also strengthen our connection with Allah. Seeking knowledge is a means of personal growth, self-improvement, and drawing closer to Allah. May we all strive to embody the teachings of this Hadith and continuously seek knowledge throughout our lives.