Hadith #1888

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, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الجَهْلُ يَجْلِبُ الغَرَرَ" which translates to "Ignorance attracts peril" in English. This concise statement holds profound wisdom and serves as a reminder for all Muslims to seek knowledge and avoid ignorance.

Let us delve into the meaning of the key words in this Hadith. "الجَهْلُ" refers to ignorance, which is the lack of knowledge or understanding. It is a state of being unaware or uninformed about a particular subject or matter. Ignorance can manifest in various forms, such as ignorance of religious teachings, moral values, or worldly affairs.

The word "يَجْلِبُ" means to attract or bring about. It signifies the consequence or result of ignorance. In this context, it implies that ignorance leads to or brings forth "الغَرَرَ" which can be translated as peril, harm, or danger. It refers to the negative consequences and adverse effects that arise from ignorance.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) emphasizes the importance of knowledge and warns against ignorance in several verses. In Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), Allah says,

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse highlights the need to verify information and avoid acting upon it blindly, as it may lead to harm and regret.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:36), Allah reminds us,

And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and refraining from engaging in matters that we have no understanding of. Ignorance can lead to misguided actions and accountability before Allah.

The consequences of ignorance can be far-reaching and detrimental. Ignorance can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and the perpetuation of falsehoods. It can hinder personal growth, prevent the acquisition of beneficial knowledge, and impede the development of a strong and vibrant Muslim community. Ignorance can also lead to the neglect of religious obligations and the adoption of harmful practices.

Conversely, knowledge is a powerful tool that enables Muslims to navigate through life with wisdom and understanding. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions, seek the truth, and uphold justice. The pursuit of knowledge is not limited to religious matters but encompasses all aspects of life, including science, ethics, and social issues. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) himself was renowned for his vast knowledge and wisdom, and he serves as an exemplary role model for Muslims in this regard.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "Ignorance attracts peril" serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge and avoid ignorance. It highlights the importance of understanding, critical thinking, and the pursuit of truth. Ignorance can lead to harm, while knowledge empowers individuals and contributes to the betterment of society. Let us strive to be knowledgeable Muslims, constantly seeking to expand our understanding and contribute positively to the world around us. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us wisdom and protect us from the perils of ignorance.