Hadith #6734

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,

رُبَّ مَعْرِفَة أدَّتْ إلى تَضليل۔

This Hadith can be translated into English as,

Many a cognizance leads to misguidance.

Let us delve into the meaning of the important words in this Hadith. The word (ma'rifah) "مَعْرِفَة" refers to knowledge or understanding. It signifies the acquisition of knowledge and comprehension. The word (tadlil) "تَضليل" means misguidance or deviation from the right path. It refers to being led astray or being misguided.

To understand the beautiful message of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding. In Surah Al-Zumar, Ayah 9, Allah says,

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

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant. However, the Hadith warns us that not all knowledge leads to guidance.

To further illustrate this point, let us examine another verse from the Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 18, Allah describes a group of people who possess knowledge but are misguided. He says,

Deaf, dumb and blind - so they will not return [to the right path].

These individuals had knowledge, but their hearts were sealed, and they were unable to benefit from it. This verse serves as a reminder that knowledge alone is not sufficient for guidance; it must be accompanied by sincerity and a righteous heart.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound wisdom and knowledge, is highlighting the dangers of acquiring knowledge without the proper intentions and understanding. He is cautioning us against the arrogance and pride that can arise from knowledge without humility.

For example, a person may acquire extensive knowledge in a particular field but use it to manipulate and deceive others. Their knowledge becomes a tool for their own personal gain, leading them and those who follow them astray. Similarly, someone may possess religious knowledge but lack the sincerity and humility required to implement it correctly. They may become self-righteous and judgmental, causing divisions and misunderstandings within the Muslim community.

The consequences of misguidance can be severe. It can lead individuals away from the path of righteousness and towards destructive actions. It can create divisions and conflicts within the Muslim ummah. It can also hinder personal growth and spiritual development.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of seeking knowledge with the right intentions and understanding. We should strive to acquire knowledge that is beneficial and aligns with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). We should approach knowledge with humility and use it as a means to bring ourselves and others closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). May Allah guide us all to the true and beneficial knowledge and protect us from the dangers of misguidance.