Hadith #4976

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 Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مَنْ أحْسَنَ الاِسْتِماعَ تَعَجَّلَ الاِنْتِفاعَ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of active and attentive listening, as it leads to quick and effective learning and understanding.

Let us first examine the key words in this Hadith. (ahsan) "أحْسَنَ" means to do something in the best or most excellent manner. (istima'a) "الاِسْتِماعَ" refers to listening attentively and with full concentration. (ta'ajjal) "تَعَجَّلَ" means to hasten or to expedite. And (intifa'a) "الاِنْتِفاعَ" means to benefit or gain from something.

To understand the profound wisdom behind this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of listening and paying attention in the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says, (Quran 2:170)

And when it is said to them, 'Follow what Allah has revealed,' they say, 'Rather, we will follow that which we found our fathers doing.' Even though their fathers understood nothing, nor were they guided?

This verse highlights the importance of actively listening to the guidance of Allah rather than blindly following the traditions of our forefathers. It reminds us that true understanding and guidance can only be attained through attentive listening and seeking knowledge.

Another verse that supports the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is found in Surah Al-A'raf, where Allah says, (Quran 7:204)

And when the Qur'an is recited, then listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy.

This verse emphasizes the need to listen attentively to the recitation of the Quran in order to receive the mercy and blessings of Allah.

Now, let us delve deeper into the exegesis of the Hadith. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is teaching us that by actively listening and paying full attention, we can quickly benefit from the knowledge and wisdom being imparted. This applies to all aspects of our lives, whether it be religious teachings, academic knowledge, or practical skills.

When we listen attentively, we are able to grasp the essence of what is being conveyed. We can understand the deeper meanings, implications, and applications of the knowledge being shared. This active engagement with the information allows us to internalize it more effectively and apply it in our lives.

For example, imagine a student who attends a lecture but is distracted and not fully engaged in listening. They may miss important details, concepts, and examples that are being shared by the teacher. As a result, their learning and understanding will be compromised, and they may struggle to apply the knowledge later on.

On the other hand, a student who actively listens, takes notes, and asks questions when needed, will have a better grasp of the subject matter. They will be able to connect the dots, understand the underlying principles, and apply the knowledge in practical situations. Their learning process will be expedited, and they will benefit more quickly from the information being presented.

Similarly, in the realm of spirituality and religious teachings, active listening plays a crucial role. When we attentively listen to the sermons, lectures, and recitation of the Quran, we are able to internalize the divine guidance and apply it in our lives. Our connection with Allah and our understanding of His message deepens, leading to spiritual growth and transformation.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of active and attentive listening. By listening well, we can quickly benefit from the knowledge and wisdom being shared. This principle applies to all aspects of our lives, whether it be religious teachings, academic knowledge, or practical skills. Let us strive to be active listeners, seeking knowledge with an open heart and mind, so that we may benefit and grow as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to listen attentively and benefit from His guidance.