Hadith #7442

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due 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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

None will attain knowledge except the one who lengthens his [period of] study.

This wise utterance emphasizes the importance of dedicating sufficient time and effort to the pursuit of knowledge. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key word in this Hadith is (knowledge) "عِلْمَ". Knowledge is a fundamental aspect of Islam, and it encompasses various dimensions, including religious, scientific, and moral knowledge. It is a means of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and understanding His creation. The word (attain) "يُحْرِزَ" implies that knowledge is not easily acquired; it requires dedication, effort, and perseverance.

The Hadith highlights the importance of (lengthening one's study) "يُطيلُ دَرْسَهُ". This phrase signifies the need for continuous and prolonged engagement in the process of learning. It emphasizes that knowledge is not gained overnight or through mere superficial understanding. Rather, it requires a deep and comprehensive study, involving reflection, contemplation, and analysis.

The Quran provides numerous verses that support the exegesis of this Hadith. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 29:69)

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of striving and putting in effort in the pursuit of knowledge. It assures us that those who exert themselves in seeking knowledge will be guided by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) towards the right path.

Another verse that supports this Hadith is found in Surah Al-Mujadila, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 29:69)

And those who strive for Our sake, We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.

This verse emphasizes the importance of striving and putting in effort in the pursuit of knowledge. It assures us that those who exert themselves in seeking knowledge will be guided by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) towards the right path.

The consequences of neglecting the advice of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith are significant. Failing to dedicate sufficient time and effort to the study of knowledge can lead to superficial understanding, ignorance, and even misguidance. It is through deep study and reflection that one can truly comprehend the wisdom and guidance contained within the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Furthermore, the Hadith encourages Muslims to adopt a lifelong commitment to learning. It reminds us that knowledge is not limited to a specific period of life but should be pursued continuously. This aligns with the Quranic principle of seeking knowledge throughout one's life. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qamar, (Quran 54:17)

And We have certainly made the Quran easy for remembrance, so is there any who will remember?

This verse emphasizes the accessibility and ease of understanding the Quran, urging Muslims to engage in its continuous study and remembrance.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to dedicate sufficient time and effort to the pursuit of knowledge. It emphasizes the need for deep study, reflection, and continuous learning. By doing so, we can attain true knowledge and understanding, and thereby strengthen our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and His creation. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability and motivation to seek knowledge and benefit from it.