Hadith #7462

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, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

ما زَكَى الْعِلْمُ بِمِثْلِ العَمَلِ بِِهِ۔

This can be translated as,

Nothing increases knowledge like acting upon it.

This profound statement by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of not only acquiring knowledge but also putting it into practice.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith. The word (zakaa) "زَكَى" is derived from the root word (zakat) "زَكَاة", which means purification. In this context, it refers to the purification and enhancement of knowledge. The word (ilm) "عِلْمُ" means knowledge, which encompasses both religious and worldly knowledge. The word (bimithli) "بِمِثْلِ" means like or similar to, indicating that the action should be in accordance with the knowledge gained. Finally, the word (al-amal) "العَمَلِ" means action or practice.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran, verse 110,

You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah.

This verse emphasizes the importance of not only knowing what is right and wrong but also actively promoting righteousness and discouraging evil. It is through action that knowledge is truly manifested and its impact is felt.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mujadila, verse 11, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse highlights that those who have knowledge will be elevated in rank by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). However, this elevation is not solely based on the acquisition of knowledge but also on the implementation of that knowledge in their actions. It is through the practical application of knowledge that one's rank is increased in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that knowledge is not meant to be hoarded or merely memorized, but rather it should be put into practice. When we act upon the knowledge we have gained, it becomes a means of purifying our souls and elevating our status in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). By embodying the teachings of Islam in our actions, we become a living example for others to follow.

For example, if we have knowledge about the importance of honesty, it is not enough to simply know that lying is wrong. We must actively practice honesty in our daily lives, even in the face of temptation or difficulty. By doing so, we not only strengthen our own character but also inspire those around us to do the same.

The consequences of acting upon knowledge are far-reaching. It not only benefits the individual but also has a positive impact on society as a whole. When Muslims actively implement the teachings of Islam, they contribute to the establishment of a just and righteous society. This leads to a harmonious coexistence and fosters an environment of peace and prosperity.

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder to Muslims that knowledge is not an end in itself, but rather a means to an end. It is through the practical application of knowledge that we truly benefit from it and increase our understanding. By acting upon our knowledge, we purify our souls, elevate our status in the sight of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and contribute to the betterment of society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to act upon the knowledge we acquire.