Hadith #7332

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

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

ألْزَمُ العِلْمِ بِكَ ما دَلَّكَ عَلى صَلاحِ دينِكَ، وأبانَ لَكَ عَنْ فَسادِهِ۔

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of knowledge that leads one towards the rectitude of their religion and protects them from its corruption.

Let us delve into the words of this Hadith to gain a deeper understanding. The word (alzam) "الزَّمُ" means to adhere to or to hold fast. It signifies the necessity of clinging to knowledge. The word (al-'ilm) "العِلْمِ" refers to knowledge, specifically religious knowledge. It encompasses understanding and awareness of the teachings of Islam.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) then states, (bika) "بِكَ", which means "for you." This highlights the personal responsibility each individual has towards seeking knowledge. It is a call for Muslims to actively engage in the pursuit of knowledge that is beneficial for their religion.

The Hadith further states, (ma dallaka 'ala salahi deenik)

ما دَلَّكَ عَلى صَلاحِ دينِكَ

which translates to

that which guides you to the rectitude of your religion.

Here, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge that leads to the improvement and righteousness of one's faith. This knowledge should enable Muslims to understand and practice their religion in the best possible manner.

Additionally, the Hadith states, (wa abana laka 'an fasadihi)

وأبانَ لَكَ عَنْ فَسادِهِ

which means

and separates you from its corruption.

This highlights the significance of acquiring knowledge that protects one from falling into the pitfalls and deviations that can corrupt their faith. It emphasizes the need for discernment and understanding to distinguish between what is correct and what is misleading or harmful.

To further understand the importance of seeking knowledge that guides towards rectitude and protects from corruption, we can turn to the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Imran (3:7),

He it is who has sent down to you the Book; in it are verses that are precise - they are the foundation of the Book - and others unspecific. As for those in whose hearts is deviation [from truth], they will follow that of it which is unspecific, seeking discord and seeking an interpretation [suitable to them]. And no one knows its [true] interpretation except Allah. But those firm in knowledge say, 'We believe in it. All [of it] is from our Lord.' And no one will be reminded except those of understanding.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking knowledge that is precise and based on the foundation of the Book (the Quran). It warns against following unspecific verses or interpretations that can lead to deviation and discord. It emphasizes the need for firm knowledge and understanding to safeguard one's faith.

Another relevant verse is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

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 information and seeking knowledge before passing judgment or taking action. It cautions against acting out of ignorance, which can lead to harm and regret.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the supporting Quranic verses, we understand that seeking knowledge is not only a religious duty but also a means to rectify and protect our faith. It is essential for Muslims to acquire knowledge that is based on the teachings of the Quran and the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Ahl al-Bayt. This knowledge enables us to navigate the complexities of our religion, distinguish between right and wrong, and safeguard ourselves from deviations and corruption.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us of the crucial role that knowledge plays in our religious journey. It urges us to seek knowledge that guides us towards the rectitude of our religion and protects us from its corruption. By adhering to this advice, we can strengthen our faith, avoid misunderstandings, and uphold the true teachings of Islam. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and motivation to seek beneficial knowledge and apply it in our lives.