“Knowledge is Superior to Wealth

Hazrat Ali (RA), the fourth Caliph of the Muslim Ummah, was one of the most eloquent and articulate among the noble companions (Sahabah). He was widely recognized as a gifted orator, a literary genius, and a man of profound wisdom and courage. He himself was the finest example of intellect, valor, and foresight.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said about him:

“I am the city of knowledge, and Ali is its gate.”

His fame spread far and wide. Anyone who heard him speak was deeply impressed and often wondered, how did he acquire such immense knowledge? Who taught him all this?

But not all hearts are the same. Those whose hearts were clouded by jealousy and who couldn’t tolerate the greatness of others were unable to bear Hazrat Ali’s (RA) acclaim. They would sarcastically question, “When did Ali become a scholar? Hasn’t he spent his entire life just following Muhammad around and fighting battles? Maybe he’s a great warrior, but how can he be a scholar?”

One day, a group of jealous individuals gathered. They discussed and decided: “We will test Ali’s so-called wisdom today.” But how?

After some discussion, they devised a plan. All of them would go to Hazrat Ali’s (RA) court together and each would ask a question of their choice. If he could answer all of them satisfactorily, then fine. But if he failed, it would prove that his reputation for knowledge was nothing but a lie and propaganda.

So, the decision was made.

Ten prominent individuals came together and stood in Hazrat Ali’s (RA) presence. One of them stepped forward as the leader while the others stood silently behind him. A tense silence filled the room.

Breaking the silence, the leader spoke:

“O Commander of the Faithful! We’ve heard that you are a great scholar, full of wisdom and insight. We have traveled a long way and come to your court hoping to quench our thirst for knowledge through your wise words.”

Hazrat Ali (RA) responded calmly,

“I do not claim to be a great scholar. But go ahead and ask your questions.”

“With your permission, may we ask you a question?”

“No need for permission in such a simple matter. Please, ask what you wish.”

“Our question is: Between wealth and knowledge, which one is superior, and why?”

“Ah, I see. Very well, listen then…”

But before Hazrat Ali (RA) could finish, the leader interrupted:

“Respected Sir, we are ten people, and so we expect ten different answers to this one question—one for each of us.”

Hazrat Ali (RA) paused for a moment, thinking: Why ten answers to one question? Could they have come with a hidden agenda to test me? Regardless, he thought, since they have asked, it is better to respond. He then said,

“I will give ten answers, one for each of you. Listen carefully.”

Everyone stared at Hazrat Ali (RA), eagerly awaiting his reply. Silence engulfed the room.

Hazrat Ali (RA) shifted slightly and began:

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“There are many reasons why knowledge is superior to wealth. But for your sake, I will give ten distinct reasons.”

1. The greatest people to ever walk this earth were the Prophets and Messengers. They emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge, not wealth. On the other hand, cursed figures like Pharaoh and Nimrod glorified wealth until their deaths. That alone proves knowledge is greater than wealth.

2. Wealth must be guarded, but knowledge guards us. In fact, if Allah wills, knowledge can protect us from countless hardships and dangers. Therefore, knowledge is superior.

3. Wealth creates jealousy and enmity among people, while knowledge fosters brotherhood, sincere friendship, and unity. Thus, knowledge is better.

4. Sharing wealth decreases it, but sharing knowledge increases and spreads it further. Hence, knowledge is better.

5. People are rarely generous with wealth, but those who possess knowledge are usually as generous as the sky. Wealth breeds miserliness; knowledge promotes generosity. So, knowledge is superior.

6. Wealth can be stolen or lost, but knowledge cannot be forcibly taken or robbed. It is a secure treasure. Thus, knowledge is superior.

7. Wealth is temporary; it may exist today and vanish tomorrow. But knowledge, once gained, remains with a person forever. It is permanent. So, knowledge is better.

8. Knowledge is infinite and boundless. It cannot be measured or confined. Wealth, however, has limits and can be quantified. Therefore, knowledge is superior.

9. Knowledge enlightens the human soul, while wealth often corrupts the heart. So, knowledge is more valuable.

10. Wealth has no intrinsic moral value. Knowledge, on the other hand, gave the Prophet (peace be upon him) his honesty, truthfulness, God-consciousness, and deep compassion for humanity. In contrast, despite their vast riches, Pharaoh, Nimrod, and Qarun never attained humility, kindness, or compassion. They became greedy, arrogant, and heartless. That’s why knowledge is undoubtedly superior to wealth.

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Everyone listened intently, mesmerized by the depth and wisdom in Hazrat Ali’s (RA) words. Ten different answers to a single question left them speechless. They finally understood that Hazrat Ali (RA) was indeed a true scholar—a seeker and master of knowledge—unmatched in intellect.

May Allah grant us the ability to value knowledge above wealth. Ameen.

As Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:

“O you who believe! What is the matter with you that when you are told to march forth in the cause of Allah, you cling heavily to the earth? Are you satisfied with the life of this world instead of the Hereafter? But little is the enjoyment of this world compared to the Hereafter.”

(Surah At-Tawbah: 38)