Hadith #7461

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ما ماتَ مَنْ أحْيى عِلْماً۔

This can be translated as,

He who enlivens knowledge does not die.

This impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the eternal nature of knowledge and its ability to transcend physical death.

To understand the depth of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. The word (ma) "ما" in Arabic is a negation particle that emphasizes the negation of something. In this context, it emphasizes the negation of death for the one who enlivens knowledge. The word (mata) "ماتَ" means "to die" and refers to the physical death of the body. The word (man) "مَنْ" means "who" and refers to any individual who possesses the quality mentioned in the Hadith. The word (ahya) "أَحْيَى" means "to enliven" or "to revive" and signifies the act of bringing life or vitality to something. Finally, the word (ilm) "عِلْمًا" means "knowledge" and encompasses all forms of knowledge, including religious, scientific, and practical knowledge.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the concept expressed in this Hadith. For example, in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:34), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And We did not grant to any man before you eternity [on earth]; so if you die - would they be eternal?

This verse emphasizes the transient nature of physical life and highlights the fact that no one can attain eternal life in this world. However, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that knowledge has the power to transcend death and leave a lasting impact.

Another verse that resonates with the message of the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Qasas (28:56), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He is most knowing of the [rightly] guided.

This verse highlights the importance of knowledge as a means of guidance. Those who enliven knowledge are not only benefiting themselves but also becoming a source of guidance for others. Their teachings and contributions continue to guide people even after their physical departure from this world.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) carries profound implications for Muslims. It encourages us to seek knowledge and actively engage in its dissemination. By doing so, we become agents of change and contribute to the betterment of society. The knowledge we acquire and share becomes a legacy that outlives us, continuing to benefit others long after we are gone.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself exemplified the embodiment of knowledge. His wisdom, intellect, and deep understanding of Islam are well-documented. He was known as the "Gate of Knowledge" due to his unparalleled expertise in various fields, including jurisprudence, theology, and ethics. His teachings and insights continue to inspire and guide Muslims to this day.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the eternal nature of knowledge and its ability to transcend physical death. It encourages us to seek knowledge, enliven it, and share it with others. By doing so, we become part of a legacy that continues to benefit humanity long after we have departed from this world. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and motivation to enliven knowledge and leave a positive impact on the world.