Hadith #11009

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) emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from individuals who not only possess knowledge but also embody the teachings they impart. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) advises us to

take light from the flame of the preacher who practices what he preaches, accept advice from the adviser who is vigilant, and act upon what he teaches you.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this profound Hadith by examining the key words and their implications.

The first word of significance is (shu'lati) "شُعْلَةِ", which translates to "flame" or "light." This word symbolizes the knowledge and guidance that emanates from a preacher or teacher. It represents the enlightenment and illumination that one can attain by seeking knowledge from a sincere and righteous individual.

The next word is (wa'iz) "واعِظ", which refers to a preacher or advisor. This word highlights the importance of seeking guidance from individuals who not only possess knowledge but also practice what they preach. It emphasizes the need for sincerity and integrity in conveying the message of Islam.

The word (mutta'iz) "مُتَّعِظ" means

one who practices what he preaches.

This word emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge from individuals who embody the teachings they impart. It reminds us that actions speak louder than words and that true guidance comes from those who exemplify the teachings of Islam in their own lives.

The next phrase in the Hadith is (nasihatun nasihi) "نَصيحَةَ ناصِح", which means

advice from the adviser.

This phrase emphasizes the importance of accepting advice from individuals who are vigilant and sincere in their counsel. It encourages us to seek guidance from those who have our best interests at heart and who possess wisdom and insight.

The word (mutayyaqiz) "مُتَيَقِّظ" means "vigilant" or "attentive." This word highlights the need for advisors to be vigilant and attentive to the needs and concerns of those seeking advice. It reminds us that sincere advice can only come from individuals who are truly invested in our well-being.

Lastly, the Hadith instructs us to (qifoo 'inda ma afadakum min at-ta'leem)

قِفُوا عِنْدَ ما أفادَكُمْ مِنَ التَّعْليمِ

which means

act upon what he teaches you.

This phrase emphasizes the importance of implementing the knowledge and guidance we receive. It reminds us that knowledge without action is futile and that true benefit lies in applying what we have learned.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6),

O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful.

This verse emphasizes the importance of verifying the credibility and integrity of those who impart knowledge to us. It encourages us to be cautious and discerning in accepting advice or teachings from individuals who may not be sincere or knowledgeable.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Mumtahina (60:8), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking guidance from individuals who are righteous and just. It reminds us that true guidance comes from those who embody the principles of Islam in their actions and interactions.

In light of these Quranic verses and the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we can draw several profound insights. Firstly, it is crucial to seek knowledge and guidance from individuals who not only possess knowledge but also practice what they preach. This ensures that the guidance we receive is authentic and reliable.

Secondly, we should be discerning in accepting advice or teachings from individuals. It is important to verify the credibility and integrity of those who impart knowledge to us, as not everyone may have our best interests at heart.

Lastly, true guidance lies in implementing the knowledge and guidance we receive. It is not enough to simply acquire knowledge; we must strive to apply it in our lives and manifest it through our actions.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a profound reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge and guidance from individuals who embody the teachings of Islam in their actions. It emphasizes the importance of sincerity, integrity, and vigilance in imparting and accepting advice. By following this guidance, we can ensure that the knowledge we acquire is authentic and beneficial, leading us towards the path of righteousness and success. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and discernment to seek true guidance and act upon it.