Hadith #7522

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,

Scholars live on as long as the day and night remains.

This amazing Hadith emphasizes the eternal nature of knowledge and the lasting impact it has on society. Let us delve into the exegesis of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The word (scholars) "عُلَمَاءُ" in this Hadith refers to those individuals who possess deep knowledge and understanding of religious teachings. They are the inheritors of the Prophets and the guardians of divine wisdom. The term (live on) "بَاقُونَ" signifies the continuous existence and influence of scholars throughout history. It highlights the fact that their knowledge transcends time and remains relevant in every era.

To support this concept, we find numerous verses in the Quran that emphasize the significance of knowledge and its everlasting nature. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Qamar (54:17),

And We have certainly made the Qur'an easy for remembrance, so is there any who will remember?

This verse highlights the importance of acquiring knowledge and remembering it, as it is through knowledge that one can truly understand and implement the teachings of the Quran.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good.

This verse emphasizes that wisdom and knowledge are gifts from Allah, and those who possess them are blessed with abundant goodness. It further emphasizes the everlasting nature of knowledge, as it is a source of continuous benefit and guidance.

Now, let us reflect on the wise message conveyed by Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in this Hadith. Scholars, through their knowledge, play a vital role in preserving and disseminating the teachings of Islam. They are the torchbearers of truth, guiding Muslims towards the path of righteousness. Their knowledge is not limited to a specific time or place but transcends generations, benefiting people throughout history.

The knowledge of scholars is like a beacon of light that illuminates the darkness of ignorance and confusion. It provides clarity and guidance in matters of faith, morality, and societal issues. Just as the day and night are essential for the functioning of the world, scholars are indispensable for the spiritual and intellectual growth of the Muslim ummah.

The consequences of neglecting the knowledge and guidance of scholars can be detrimental. Without their guidance, individuals may fall into misconceptions, misunderstandings, and deviant ideologies. The absence of knowledgeable scholars can lead to the spread of ignorance, division, and moral decay within society.

On the other hand, when Muslims actively seek knowledge and benefit from the wisdom of scholars, they become empowered to navigate the challenges of life with confidence and righteousness. They are equipped with the tools to distinguish between right and wrong, to uphold justice, and to contribute positively to society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for Muslims to value and support the scholars who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of knowledge. It encourages us to seek knowledge ourselves and to benefit from the wisdom of those who possess it. By doing so, we ensure the continuity of knowledge and the preservation of Islamic teachings for future generations.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the eternal nature of knowledge and the lasting impact of scholars. It reminds us of the importance of seeking knowledge, benefiting from the wisdom of scholars, and supporting their efforts. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) bless us with the ability to acquire knowledge and to benefit from the guidance of scholars. May we strive to be among those who uphold and propagate the teachings of Islam, ensuring its continuity for generations to come.