Hadith #6748

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, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Cognizance of Allah, the Glorified, is the highest cognizance.

This wise utterance emphasizes the importance and significance of knowing and understanding Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) in the highest degree.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (ma'rifah) "مَعْرِفَةُ" refers to knowledge, understanding, and recognition. It encompasses a comprehensive understanding of the attributes, qualities, and essence of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). The term (Allah) "اللّهِ" refers to the one and only true God, the Creator of the heavens and the earth. (subhanahu) "سُبْحَانَهُ" signifies the transcendence and perfection of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), while (a'la) "أعْلَى" means the highest or the most elevated.

To further comprehend the depth of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255),

Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.

This verse highlights the incomparable knowledge and greatness of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It emphasizes that no one can intercede with Him except by His permission, and that His knowledge encompasses everything. This aligns with the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), which asserts that the highest form of knowledge is the cognizance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am (6:59), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it. And no grain is there within the darknesses of the earth and no moist or dry [thing] but that it is [written] in a clear record.

This verse emphasizes the all-encompassing knowledge of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It highlights that He possesses the keys to the unseen, and that His knowledge extends to every detail of the universe, including the falling of a leaf. This serves as a reminder of the vastness and depth of Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) knowledge, which is the pinnacle of cognition.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we understand that the highest form of knowledge and understanding is the cognizance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This knowledge encompasses recognizing His attributes, understanding His divine plan, and acknowledging His sovereignty over all creation. It is through this cognizance that we can attain true enlightenment, guidance, and spiritual growth.

By striving to deepen our understanding of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His divine attributes, we can develop a profound connection with our Creator. This knowledge should motivate us to lead a life that is in accordance with His teachings, seeking His pleasure and guidance in all aspects of our lives. It should inspire us to reflect upon the signs of His creation and to constantly seek His forgiveness and mercy.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the highest form of knowledge is the cognizance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). This knowledge is attained through deep reflection, study of the Quran, and contemplation of the signs of Allah's creation. It is through this cognizance that we can truly understand our purpose in life and strive to fulfill it in the best possible manner. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to attain the highest level of cognizance and may it be a source of guidance and blessings for all Muslims.