Hadith #7448

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

One who acts with knowledge attains his goal and desire from the Hereafter.

This enlightening Hadith emphasizes the significance of knowledge and its impact on our spiritual journey towards the Hereafter.

Let us delve deeper into the key words of this Hadith to gain a comprehensive understanding. The word (knowledge) "عِلْمِ" refers to the understanding and awareness of religious teachings and principles. It encompasses both theoretical and practical knowledge, including the knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, ethics, and spirituality.

The word (attains) "بَلَغَ" signifies reaching or achieving something. In the context of this Hadith, it refers to the attainment of one's ultimate goal and desire, which is the success in the Hereafter. It implies that by acting upon knowledge, one can attain the desired outcome in the afterlife.

The phrase (his goal and desire from the Hereafter)

بُغْيَتَهُ مِنَ الآخِرَةِ ومُرادَهُ

highlights the ultimate objective of a believer, which is to attain success and salvation in the Hereafter. It emphasizes that the true purpose of acquiring knowledge is to seek the pleasure of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and to secure a place in Paradise.

To further understand the significance of knowledge in attaining success in the Hereafter, let us turn to the Quran. 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 distinction between those who possess knowledge and those who are ignorant. It emphasizes that knowledge elevates one's status and enables them to make informed decisions in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

Additionally, in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states,

Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees.

This verse emphasizes that knowledge is a means of spiritual elevation and honor in the sight of Allah. It highlights that those who possess knowledge will be raised to higher ranks in the Hereafter.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that knowledge without action is incomplete. It is not enough to merely possess knowledge; rather, it is essential to implement it in our lives. By acting upon the knowledge we acquire, we align our actions with the teachings of Islam, leading us towards our ultimate goal of attaining success in the Hereafter.

When we act upon knowledge, we are motivated by the desire to please Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and seek His mercy and forgiveness. Our actions become a reflection of our faith and devotion to Him. By implementing the knowledge we have gained, we strive to fulfill our obligations, avoid sinful acts, and engage in acts of worship and righteousness.

The consequences of acting upon knowledge are profound. It leads to the purification of the soul, the strengthening of one's relationship with Allah, and the development of moral character. By consistently acting upon knowledge, we cultivate a sense of taqwa (God-consciousness) and strive to embody the teachings of Islam in all aspects of our lives.

Moreover, acting upon knowledge not only benefits the individual but also has a positive impact on society. When individuals apply their knowledge in a righteous manner, they contribute to the betterment of their communities. They become a source of guidance and inspiration for others, encouraging them to seek knowledge and act upon it as well.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of knowledge in attaining success in the Hereafter. It highlights that knowledge must be accompanied by action to achieve the desired outcome. By acting upon the knowledge we acquire, we align our actions with the teachings of Islam, seek the pleasure of Allah, and strive for success in the Hereafter. May Allah grant us the ability to acquire knowledge and act upon it, and may He bless us with success in this world and the Hereafter.