Hadith #7284

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 provided Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of wisdom and humility in the process of acquiring and imparting knowledge. Let us delve into a deeper understanding of this enlightening saying.

The first part of the Hadith states,

It behoves the intelligent person not to be harsh when he teaches.

Here, the word (intelligent person) "عاقِلِ" refers to an individual who possesses intellectual acumen and discernment. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises such a person to avoid being harsh or severe in their teaching methods. This highlights the significance of kindness, patience, and empathy when imparting knowledge to others.

This teaching aligns with the Quranic principle of using gentle and compassionate methods of communication. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:159),

So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you.

This verse emphasizes the importance of leniency and softness in dealing with others, as it fosters unity and cooperation.

The second part of the Hadith states,

and not to scorn [others] when he gains knowledge.

The word (gains knowledge) "عُلِّمَ" refers to the acquisition of knowledge and understanding. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises that one should not look down upon or belittle others due to their lack of knowledge. This highlights the importance of humility and recognizing that knowledge is a gift from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran also emphasizes the virtue of humility in the face of knowledge. In Surah Al-Jathiyah (45:18), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Then We caused to inherit the Book those We have chosen of Our servants; and among them is he who wrongs himself, and among them is he who is moderate, and among them is he who is foremost in good deeds by permission of Allah. That [inheritance] is what is the great bounty.

This verse reminds us that knowledge should humble us and lead us to acts of righteousness, rather than causing arrogance or superiority.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advice in this Hadith has profound implications for both the teacher and the learner. For the teacher, it serves as a reminder to be patient, kind, and understanding while imparting knowledge. It encourages them to create a nurturing and supportive environment that facilitates effective learning.

For the learner, this Hadith emphasizes the importance of remaining humble and respectful towards others, regardless of their level of knowledge. It reminds us that knowledge is not a tool for superiority or arrogance, but rather a means to serve and uplift others.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the virtues of wisdom, humility, and compassion in the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge. It reminds us to be gentle and patient when teaching, and to avoid looking down upon others when we gain knowledge. By embodying these qualities, we can create an atmosphere of growth, understanding, and unity within the Muslim community. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to seek knowledge with humility and to share it with kindness and compassion.