Hadith #7405

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. 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 عِلْم أدَّى إلى مَضَلَّتِكَ۔

This can be translated as,

Many a knowledge may lead to your misguidance.

Let us delve into the essence of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْم" in this Hadith refers to any type of knowledge, whether it be religious, scientific, or worldly. It encompasses all forms of knowledge that one acquires throughout their life. The word (may lead) "أدَّى" indicates the potential consequence of knowledge, which is misguidance. It implies that knowledge, if not utilized correctly, can become a means of deviation and misguidance.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:16),

These are the people who have purchased error for guidance, so their transaction has brought no profit, nor were they guided.

This verse highlights the danger of acquiring knowledge without sincerity and righteousness. It warns us that if we seek knowledge for the wrong reasons or with impure intentions, it can lead us astray.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:175), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

And recite to them the story of the one to whom We gave Our signs, but he detached himself from them; so Satan pursued him, and he became one of the deviators.

This verse narrates the story of a person who was granted knowledge and signs from Allah, but he detached himself from them and was led astray by Satan. It emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the divine signs and using knowledge in accordance with the guidance of Allah.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to be cautious and mindful of the knowledge they acquire. It urges us to reflect upon the purpose and intention behind seeking knowledge. If knowledge is pursued with arrogance, pride, or for personal gain, it can lead to misguidance and spiritual downfall.

For example, a person who acquires religious knowledge solely for the purpose of gaining authority or control over others may misuse that knowledge and lead people astray. Similarly, a scientist who uses their knowledge to create destructive weapons or harm humanity is also an example of knowledge leading to misguidance.

On the other hand, if knowledge is sought with humility, sincerity, and the intention to serve Allah and benefit humanity, it becomes a means of guidance and righteousness. The Quran affirms this in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

Are those who have knowledge equal to those who do not have knowledge?

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge and use it for the betterment of themselves and others.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) amazing Hadith reminds us that knowledge alone is not enough. It must be accompanied by wisdom, humility, and a sincere intention to seek the pleasure of Allah. We should constantly evaluate our intentions and actions, ensuring that our pursuit of knowledge aligns with the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

In conclusion, Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith serves as a powerful reminder for Muslims to be cautious and mindful of the knowledge they acquire. It warns us that knowledge, if not utilized correctly, can become a means of deviation and misguidance. By seeking knowledge with sincerity, humility, and the intention to serve Allah, we can ensure that it becomes a source of guidance and righteousness in our lives. May Allah guide us all on the path of knowledge and righteousness.