Hadith #7447

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

مَنْ لَمْ يَهْدِهِ الْعِلْمُ أضَلَّهُ الجَهْلُ۔

This can be translated as,

One who is not guided by knowledge is misguided by ignorance.

This thought-provoking saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and the dire consequences of remaining ignorant.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith. The word (knowledge) "عِلْمُ" refers to the understanding and awareness of facts, truths, and principles. It encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. Knowledge is a guiding light that illuminates our path, leading us towards righteousness and success. On the other hand, (ignorance) "جَهْلُ" signifies the lack of knowledge and understanding. It blinds individuals, causing them to stumble in darkness and make misguided choices.

The Quran emphasizes the significance of knowledge in numerous verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant. It emphasizes that knowledge is a means of remembrance and understanding, enabling individuals to distinguish between right and wrong.

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

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

This verse highlights that knowledge is a means of elevation and honor in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It is through knowledge that individuals are raised in ranks and granted success in this world and the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge and to be guided by it. Knowledge is not merely an intellectual pursuit, but a means to attain closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to fulfill our responsibilities as His servants. It is through knowledge that we gain a deeper understanding of our faith, enabling us to worship Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the best possible manner.

When we are guided by knowledge, we are able to make informed decisions in all aspects of our lives. We are able to distinguish between right and wrong, truth and falsehood. Knowledge empowers us to navigate through the challenges and complexities of the world, enabling us to contribute positively to society. It helps us develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and compassion towards others.

Conversely, when individuals are misguided by ignorance, they are prone to making mistakes and falling into error. Ignorance can lead to misunderstandings, prejudices, and harmful actions. It blinds individuals to the truth, preventing them from recognizing the beauty and wisdom of Islam. Ignorance hinders personal growth and societal progress, as it perpetuates superstitions and misconceptions.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a motivation for Muslims to seek knowledge and to continuously strive for self-improvement. It encourages us to engage in lifelong learning, to seek knowledge from authentic sources, and to surround ourselves with knowledgeable individuals. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of ignorance and become beacons of guidance for ourselves and others.

The consequences of being guided by knowledge are profound. It leads to personal growth, spiritual enlightenment, and a deeper connection with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It enables us to fulfill our duties as Muslims and to contribute positively to society. Knowledge empowers us to be agents of change, promoting justice, equality, and compassion in the world.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith reminds us of the importance of seeking knowledge and the perils of remaining ignorant. Knowledge is a guiding light that leads us towards righteousness and success. It is through knowledge that we gain a deeper understanding of our faith and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims. Let us strive to be guided by knowledge and to continuously seek it, so that we may navigate through life with wisdom and make a positive impact on the world around us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to seek knowledge and to be guided by it.