Hadith #2717

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,

Take wisdom from the one who brings it to you, and look at what he is said and do not look at who said it.

This thought-provoking saying emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom from any source, regardless of the person delivering it.

Let us delve into the key words of this Hadith. The word (hikmah) "حِكْمَةَ" refers to wisdom, which encompasses knowledge, understanding, and the ability to apply knowledge in a beneficial manner. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses both religious and worldly wisdom. The word (mimman) "مِمَّنْ" means

from the one who,

indicating that wisdom can be acquired from anyone, regardless of their social status or background. The word (atak) "أتاكَ" means

brings it to you,

highlighting the importance of actively seeking knowledge and being open to receiving it.

The second part of the Hadith states,

and look at what he is said and do not look at who said it.

This part emphasizes the need to focus on the content and substance of the message rather than being influenced by the identity or reputation of the person delivering it. It encourages Muslims to evaluate the truthfulness and validity of the knowledge based on its own merits, rather than dismissing it due to personal biases or preconceived notions.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Zumar (39:9),

Are those who know equal to those who do not know?

This verse highlights the superiority of those who possess knowledge over those who are ignorant. It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and recognizing its value in shaping our lives and decisions.

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

He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom is indeed given a great good.

This verse emphasizes that wisdom is a divine gift bestowed upon individuals by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ). It reinforces the idea that wisdom can be found in various sources and that we should be open to receiving it from anyone.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) encourages Muslims to be humble and open-minded in their pursuit of knowledge. It reminds us that knowledge can be found in unexpected places and that we should not dismiss it based on personal biases or prejudices. By focusing on the content and substance of the message, rather than the identity of the messenger, we can gain valuable insights and wisdom that can positively impact our lives.

For example, if a person from a different religious background shares a moral or ethical teaching that aligns with the principles of Islam, we should not reject it simply because of their religious affiliation. Instead, we should evaluate the message itself and recognize the universal truths that it contains. This approach allows us to broaden our understanding and benefit from the wisdom that exists beyond our own community.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder for Muslims to seek knowledge and wisdom from all sources, without prejudice or bias. It encourages us to focus on the content of the message rather than the identity of the messenger. By adopting this approach, we can expand our understanding, gain valuable insights, and grow closer to the path of righteousness. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in our pursuit of knowledge and grant us the wisdom to discern truth from falsehood.