Hadith #7367

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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,

العِلْمُ أفْضَلُ (أشْرَفُ) هِدايَة۔

This can be translated as

Knowledge is the most excellent (or honorable) guidance.

In this beautiful Hadith, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance and superiority of knowledge as a guiding light in our lives.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْمُ" holds immense significance in Islam. It refers to the understanding, awareness, and comprehension of various aspects of life, including religious teachings, worldly affairs, and moral values. Knowledge is not limited to the acquisition of information but encompasses the application and implementation of that knowledge in our actions and decisions.

The word (most excellent) "أفْضَلُ" or (honorable) "أشْرَفُ" highlights the superiority and nobility of knowledge. It signifies that knowledge is not only valuable but also holds a position of great honor and distinction. It is a gift bestowed upon us by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) that elevates our status and guides us towards righteousness.

The importance of knowledge is emphasized in numerous verses of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who lack it. Those who possess knowledge are elevated in their understanding and are better equipped to navigate the challenges of life.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse emphasizes that knowledge is a means of spiritual elevation and growth. It is through knowledge that believers are raised in their ranks and rewarded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement highlights the transformative power of knowledge. Knowledge serves as a guiding light that illuminates our path and directs us towards righteousness. It enables us to make informed decisions, avoid pitfalls, and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

When we acquire knowledge, we become aware of our responsibilities as Muslims and the teachings of Islam. We gain a deeper understanding of our faith, its principles, and its values. This knowledge empowers us to live a life in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Knowledge also has practical implications in our daily lives. It enables us to excel in our professions, contribute positively to society, and make informed choices. It equips us with the tools to critically analyze information, discern truth from falsehood, and navigate the complexities of the modern world.

Moreover, knowledge fosters personal growth and development. It broadens our horizons, expands our intellectual capacity, and instills a sense of curiosity and lifelong learning. It encourages us to seek knowledge from diverse sources, engage in critical thinking, and continuously strive for self-improvement.

The pursuit of knowledge is not limited to any specific field or domain. It encompasses religious knowledge, scientific knowledge, moral knowledge, and all forms of beneficial knowledge. Islam encourages Muslims to seek knowledge from cradle to grave and to be lifelong learners.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement,

Knowledge is the most excellent (or honorable) guidance,

emphasizes the importance and superiority of knowledge in our lives. It serves as a guiding light that illuminates our path, empowers us to make informed decisions, and enables us to live a life in accordance with the teachings of Islam. Let us strive to acquire knowledge, implement it in our lives, and seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) through the pursuit of knowledge. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us all with beneficial knowledge and guide us on the path of righteousness.