Hadith #1913

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure Ahl al-Bayt (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

مَنِ اسْتَطارَهُ الجَهْلُ فَقَدْعَصَى العَقْلَ۔

This Hadith can be translated as:

One who gets uplifted by ignorance has opposed the intellect.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith. The word (istatara) "استطاره" means to be uplifted or elevated by something. In this context, it refers to being influenced or swayed by ignorance. The word (al-jahl) "الجهل" means ignorance, which refers to the lack of knowledge or understanding. And the word (a'sa) "عصى" means to oppose or disobey.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6):

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and verifying information before accepting it. It warns against blindly following those who spread misinformation or act out of ignorance. It encourages Muslims to use their intellect and critical thinking to discern the truth from falsehood.

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

He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good. And none will remember except those of understanding.

This verse highlights the significance of wisdom and knowledge. It reminds us that true wisdom comes from Allah, and it is a great blessing bestowed upon those who possess it. Those who have been granted wisdom are the ones who truly understand and appreciate its value.

Now, let us reflect on the exegesis of the Hadith itself. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his immense knowledge and wisdom, warns us about the dangers of being influenced by ignorance. When a person allows themselves to be uplifted by ignorance, they are essentially opposing the intellect that Allah has bestowed upon them.

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge, to be critical thinkers, and to not blindly follow or accept information without proper investigation. It urges us to use our intellect and understanding to distinguish between truth and falsehood, between knowledge and ignorance.

When we allow ourselves to be influenced by ignorance, we may make decisions or take actions that are detrimental to ourselves and others. Ignorance can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and harmful consequences. On the other hand, when we embrace knowledge and wisdom, we are able to make informed choices, contribute positively to society, and lead a righteous life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) thought-provoking Hadith in this Hadith highlights the importance of seeking knowledge, using our intellect, and avoiding the pitfalls of ignorance. It encourages Muslims to be lifelong learners, to constantly strive for knowledge, and to never be complacent in their pursuit of truth and understanding.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be vigilant against ignorance and to constantly seek knowledge. It emphasizes the importance of using our intellect and critical thinking to discern the truth from falsehood. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of ignorance and lead a life guided by wisdom and understanding. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek knowledge and use our intellect in the best possible way.