Hadith #7531

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and sitting with scholars. It states,

Sit with the scholars and your knowledge will increase, your etiquette will improve and your soul will become purified.

This Hadith highlights three significant outcomes that can be achieved by engaging in the company of knowledgeable individuals.

Firstly, the Hadith mentions that sitting with scholars leads to an increase in knowledge. The Arabic word used for knowledge in this Hadith is (عِلْمُكَ) "ilm", which refers to both religious and worldly knowledge. By associating with scholars, one can benefit from their wisdom, experience, and deep understanding of various subjects. This interaction enables individuals to gain new insights, broaden their perspectives, and acquire knowledge that they may not have otherwise obtained.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge in several verses. For example, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant. Similarly, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages believers to seek knowledge by saying,

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

Secondly, the Hadith mentions that sitting with scholars improves one's etiquette. The Arabic word used for etiquette in this Hadith is (أدَبُكَ) "adab", which encompasses manners, behavior, and conduct. When individuals spend time with scholars, they observe their exemplary character, humility, and respect for others. By emulating these qualities, individuals can refine their own behavior and develop a sense of propriety in their interactions with others. This not only enhances their personal relationships but also contributes to the betterment of society as a whole.

The Quran also emphasizes the importance of good manners and etiquette. In Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the exemplary manners of the Prophet (ﷺ) and serves as a model for Muslims to follow. Additionally, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) advises believers to

not let some men among you ridicule others; it may be that the latter are better than the former.

Lastly, the Hadith mentions that sitting with scholars purifies one's soul. The Arabic word used for soul in this Hadith is (نَفْسُكَ) "nafs", which refers to the inner self or the spiritual aspect of a person. When individuals engage in the company of scholars, they are exposed to spiritual teachings, guidance, and reminders. This exposure helps individuals reflect upon their own actions, purify their intentions, and strive for spiritual growth. By purifying their souls, individuals can attain a higher level of consciousness and develop a stronger connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The Quran emphasizes the importance of purifying the soul in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Shams (91:9-10), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

He has succeeded who purifies it, and he has failed who instills it [with corruption].

This verse highlights the significance of purifying the soul as a means of achieving success in this life and the hereafter. Additionally, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:43), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) mentions that the righteous will be rewarded with gardens of Paradise, where they will be purified and abide eternally.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge, improve their etiquette, and purify their souls by sitting with scholars. By doing so, individuals can expand their knowledge, refine their behavior, and attain spiritual growth. The Quranic verses mentioned further emphasize the importance of these aspects in the life of a believer. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the opportunity to benefit from the company of scholars and enable us to implement the teachings of Islam in our lives.