Hadith #7532

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. 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, "جاوِرِ العُلَماءَ تَسْتَبْصِرْ۔" This can be translated as,

Be close to the scholars and you will perceive.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this beautiful saying in the light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. (jaawir) "جاوِرِ" means to be close or to accompany, and (al-'ulama') "العُلَماءَ" refers to the scholars or those who possess knowledge. Lastly, (tastabsir) "تَسْتَبْصِرْ" means to perceive, understand, or gain insight.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and the guidance of scholars in numerous verses. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

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

This verse highlights the distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who lack it. It emphasizes the superiority of the knowledgeable ones and encourages Muslims to seek knowledge from them.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Nahl (16:43), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And We sent not before you except men to whom We revealed [Our message]. So ask the people of the message if you do not know.

This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from those who have been entrusted with divine knowledge. It encourages Muslims to approach the scholars and seek their guidance when in doubt or in need of understanding.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) further emphasizes the significance of being close to the scholars. By accompanying them, one can gain insight and understanding. This means that by being in the company of knowledgeable individuals, we can benefit from their wisdom, experience, and deep understanding of the Quran and Sunnah.

Being close to the scholars allows us to witness their dedication to seeking knowledge, their adherence to the teachings of Islam, and their ability to apply the principles of the Quran in their daily lives. Their actions and behavior serve as practical examples for us to follow, enabling us to better understand and implement the teachings of Islam.

Moreover, being close to the scholars provides us with the opportunity to engage in intellectual discussions, ask questions, and seek clarification on matters that may be unclear to us. This interaction fosters a deeper understanding of the Quranic teachings and helps us overcome any misconceptions or doubts we may have.

Additionally, the Hadith encourages us to develop a close relationship with the scholars to benefit from their spiritual guidance and moral teachings. By observing their piety, humility, and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), we can learn valuable lessons on how to strengthen our own faith and improve our character.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to be close to the scholars in order to gain insight and understanding. By accompanying the knowledgeable individuals, we can benefit from their wisdom, guidance, and practical examples. This aligns with the Quranic teachings that emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge and guidance from those who possess it. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom to recognize the value of scholars and the humility to seek their guidance.