Hadith #7327

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 Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

The most honourable knowledge is that which is manifested in the organs and limbs.

This thought-provoking saying highlights the importance of practical knowledge that is put into action and reflected in our deeds. Let us delve deeper into the meaning of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (knowledge) "عِلْمِ" in this Hadith refers to the understanding and awareness of the teachings of Islam. It encompasses both theoretical knowledge, which is acquired through learning and study, as well as practical knowledge, which is demonstrated through our actions. The word (manifested) "ظَهَرَ" indicates that this knowledge should be evident and visible in our daily lives, not merely confined to our thoughts or beliefs.

The phrase (in the organs and limbs) "فِي الجَوارِحِ والأرْكانِ" emphasizes the importance of implementing this knowledge in all aspects of our lives. It signifies that true knowledge is not limited to intellectual pursuits, but rather extends to our physical actions and behaviors. Our limbs and organs represent the means through which we interact with the world, and it is through these actions that our knowledge is truly put to the test.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that support the concept of knowledge being manifested in our actions. For example, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177),

Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves.

This verse highlights the importance of belief in Allah and the Day of Judgment, but also emphasizes the practical aspect of righteousness through acts of charity and kindness towards others.

Another verse that supports the Hadith is found in Surah Al-Asr (103:3), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

This verse emphasizes the importance of not only believing but also acting righteously, advising others towards truth, and practicing patience. It reinforces the idea that knowledge should be translated into action and reflected in our behavior towards others.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) urges us to seek knowledge that is not confined to theoretical understanding alone. It reminds us that true knowledge is one that is put into practice and reflected in our actions. It encourages us to embody the teachings of Islam in our daily lives, so that our knowledge becomes a source of guidance and inspiration for others.

When we strive to manifest our knowledge in our organs and limbs, we become agents of positive change in society. Our actions become a means of spreading goodness and righteousness, and we become a living example of the teachings of Islam. By embodying the values and principles of Islam, we contribute to the betterment of our communities and fulfill our responsibilities as Muslims.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of practical knowledge that is manifested in our actions. It reminds us that true knowledge is not limited to intellectual understanding, but should be reflected in our behavior and interactions with others. By seeking knowledge and implementing it in our lives, we strive to become true followers of Islam and fulfill our purpose as Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to acquire and manifest knowledge in the best possible way.