Hadith #7408

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be 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,

The adornment of knowledge is forbearance.

This beautiful Hadith emphasizes the importance of patience and tolerance in the pursuit and application of knowledge. Let us delve deeper into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith.

The word (zayn) "زَيْنُ" means adornment or beauty. It refers to something that enhances and beautifies. In the context of this Hadith, it signifies that knowledge is made more beautiful and appealing when accompanied by forbearance. It is not enough to possess knowledge; one must also exhibit patience and tolerance in order to truly adorn and benefit from it.

The word (ilm) "عِلْمِ" means knowledge. It encompasses all forms of knowledge, including religious, scientific, and worldly knowledge. It is the understanding and awareness of facts, information, and principles. Knowledge is a valuable asset that enlightens and empowers individuals.

The word (hilm) "اَلحِلْمُ" translates to forbearance or patience. It refers to the ability to remain calm, composed, and patient in the face of adversity, challenges, or provocations. Forbearance is a virtue that allows individuals to control their emotions and respond to situations with wisdom and composure.

To further understand the significance of forbearance in relation to knowledge, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Furqan, Ayah 63:

And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace.

This verse highlights the importance of responding to ignorance and harshness with peace and forbearance. It teaches us that true knowledge is not just about acquiring information, but also about embodying its teachings and principles in our behavior and interactions with others. When faced with ignorance or hostility, a person of knowledge should respond with patience and kindness, thereby adorning their knowledge with forbearance.

Another Quranic verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali is found in Surah Al-Qasas, Ayah 54:

Indeed, those who are patient will be given their reward without account.

This verse emphasizes the immense reward that awaits those who demonstrate patience. It reminds us that forbearance is not only a virtue in itself, but it also leads to great rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). When knowledge is accompanied by patience, it becomes a means of attaining spiritual growth and blessings from Allah.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali, we can understand that knowledge without forbearance can be misused or become a source of arrogance and pride. However, when knowledge is adorned with forbearance, it becomes a powerful tool for positive change and benefit to oneself and others.

For example, a person who possesses religious knowledge may be aware of the correct practices and rituals, but if they lack forbearance, they may impose their views on others or become judgmental. On the other hand, a person who combines their knowledge with forbearance will approach others with kindness, understanding, and patience, thereby fostering a harmonious and inclusive environment.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that knowledge is truly adorned and enhanced when accompanied by forbearance. It reminds us of the importance of patience and tolerance in our pursuit and application of knowledge. By embodying forbearance, we not only beautify our knowledge but also cultivate a compassionate and inclusive society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to adorn our knowledge with forbearance.