Hadith #7431

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 purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Everything diminishes when it is expended except knowledge.

This enlightening Hadith highlights the unique nature and value of knowledge in Islam. Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith and explore its implications in light of the Quran.

The word (naqasa) "نَقَصَ" in Arabic, which is translated as "diminishes" in English, refers to a decrease or reduction in quantity or quality. It implies that when something is spent or used, it tends to lose its value or significance. However, the Hadith makes an exception for knowledge, emphasizing its enduring and ever-increasing nature.

The term (al-infaq) "الاِنْفَاقِ" means expenditure or spending. It encompasses various forms of spending, such as charity, acts of worship, and any other beneficial actions undertaken for the sake of Allah. The Hadith suggests that while all other things diminish in value when spent, knowledge remains constant or even grows.

This beautiful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) finds support in numerous verses of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269),

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great good, and none but men of understanding take heed.

This verse highlights the immense value and virtue of knowledge, which is bestowed upon those whom Allah chooses.

Furthermore, in Surah Az-Zumar (39:9), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

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

This rhetorical question emphasizes the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant. It highlights the fact that knowledge elevates an individual's understanding, wisdom, and ability to make informed decisions.

The consequences of this Hadith are far-reaching. It encourages Muslims to prioritize the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in all aspects of life. Knowledge is not limited to religious matters but encompasses all fields of study and disciplines. Islam encourages Muslims to seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave, as it is a means of personal growth, societal progress, and spiritual enlightenment.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement also serves as a motivation for Muslims to invest in education and intellectual pursuits. It reminds us that knowledge is an invaluable asset that can never be depleted or devalued. By seeking knowledge, Muslims can contribute positively to their communities, solve complex problems, and uphold justice and righteousness.

Moreover, this Hadith serves as a reflection on the character and qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself. Known for his unparalleled knowledge and wisdom, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) was a beacon of guidance for Muslims. His deep understanding of various fields of knowledge, including jurisprudence, theology, and ethics, made him a trusted source of wisdom and guidance for the Muslim ummah.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the exceptional nature of knowledge in Islam. While everything else diminishes when expended, knowledge remains constant or even grows. This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to prioritize the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge in all aspects of life. It motivates us to invest in education and intellectual pursuits, and it reflects the remarkable qualities of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) as a source of knowledge and guidance. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with beneficial knowledge and enable us to use it for the betterment of ourselves and humanity.