Hadith #5

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Knowledge is a venerable estate; good manners are new dresses; and thinking is a clear mirror.

Let us delve into the profound meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

Firstly, let us understand the key words in this Hadith. (الْعِلْمُ) "Knowledge" refers to the understanding and awareness of facts and information. It is a valuable inheritance that is passed down from one generation to another. (الْآدَابُ) "Good manners" are the virtuous behaviors and etiquettes that adorn a person's character. They are like new dresses that beautify and enhance one's appearance. (الْفِكْرُ) "Thinking" refers to the process of contemplation, reflection, and deep pondering. It is like a clear mirror that enables us to see ourselves and the world around us with clarity.

To support the significance of knowledge, the Quran states in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

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. Knowledge is a means of attaining closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and understanding His creation.

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

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

This verse emphasizes that knowledge is a means of elevation and honor in the sight of Allah. It is a source of spiritual growth and development.

The second part of the Hadith focuses on good manners. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of good character and manners. In Surah Al-Qalam (68:4), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) describes the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by saying,

And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

This verse highlights the exemplary manners and noble character of the Prophet (ﷺ), which serve as a role model for all Muslims.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.

This verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and fairness. Good manners are essential in fostering harmonious relationships and building a just society.

The third part of the Hadith highlights the significance of thinking and reflection. The Quran encourages believers to ponder upon the signs of Allah's creation. In Surah Al-Imran (3:190), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.

This verse urges Muslims to contemplate the wonders of the universe and to seek knowledge through observation and reflection.

Moreover, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:164), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.

This verse emphasizes the importance of using our intellect and reasoning to comprehend the world around us.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautifully encapsulates the significance of knowledge, good manners, and thinking. Knowledge is a precious inheritance that enables us to grow closer to Allah and understand His creation. Good manners adorn our character and foster harmonious relationships. Thinking and reflection allow us to gain deeper insights and understanding of the world around us. May we strive to seek knowledge, cultivate good manners, and engage in thoughtful contemplation, following the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his noble progeny.