Hadith #2677

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds, and blessings be upon Muhammad (ﷺ) and his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, as well as his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of recognizing the rights of those who possess knowledge, regardless of their age, status, or position in society. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges Muslims to acknowledge and respect the rights of individuals who possess knowledge, regardless of their social standing.

The word (i'rifoo) "اِعْرِفُوا" means "recognize" or "acknowledge." It implies that Muslims should not only be aware of the existence of those who possess knowledge but also actively recognize and appreciate their rights. This recognition should extend to individuals of all ages, whether they are young or old. It emphasizes that knowledge is not limited to a specific age group and that the rights of those who possess knowledge should be respected regardless of their age.

The word (al-haqq) "الحَقَّ" refers to the right or truth. In this context, it signifies the rights of individuals who possess knowledge. The Imam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of recognizing and upholding the rights of those who possess knowledge, emphasizing the significance of knowledge in Islam.

The phrase (liman 'arafahu lakum) "لِمَنْ عَرَفَهُ لَكُمْ" means

the one who knows your right.

It emphasizes that the recognition of the rights of individuals who possess knowledge should be based on their understanding and acknowledgment of the rights of others. This implies that individuals who possess knowledge should not only be knowledgeable in their respective fields but also be aware of the rights and responsibilities they owe to others.

The phrase (sagheeran kan aw kabeeran)

صَغِيراً كانَ أوْ كَبِيراً

means "young or old." It emphasizes that the recognition of the rights of individuals who possess knowledge should not be limited by age. Both young and old individuals who possess knowledge should be acknowledged and respected for their contributions.

The phrase (wadie'an kan aw rafi'an)

وَضِيعاً كانَ أوْ رَفيعاً

means "inferior or superior." It emphasizes that the recognition of the rights of individuals who possess knowledge should not be influenced by their social status or position in society. Regardless of their social standing, individuals who possess knowledge should be acknowledged and respected for their expertise and contributions.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasizes the importance of knowledge and the recognition of those who possess it. 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 do not, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the rights and status of individuals who possess knowledge.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O you who have believed, when you are told, 'Space yourselves' in assemblies, then make space; Allah will make space for you.

This verse emphasizes the importance of giving respect and recognition to those who possess knowledge by making space for them in gatherings. It signifies that Muslims should prioritize the rights of individuals who possess knowledge and provide them with the respect and recognition they deserve.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to acknowledge and respect the rights of individuals who possess knowledge. It emphasizes that knowledge is not limited by age or social status and that the recognition of the rights of those who possess knowledge is essential for the growth and development of society. By recognizing and upholding the rights of individuals who possess knowledge, Muslims can foster an environment that encourages the pursuit of knowledge and the sharing of expertise, leading to the betterment of society as a whole.