Hadith Text

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "If anyone acquires knowledge that should be sought seeking the Face of Allah, but he acquires it only to get some worldly advantage, he will not experience the arf, i.e. the fragrance, of Paradise."

Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 3664

Commentary on the Hadith

This profound hadith from the Book of Knowledge (Kitab Al-Ilm) addresses the fundamental matter of intention (niyyah) in seeking Islamic knowledge. The scholars explain that knowledge which should be sought for Allah's Countenance refers to religious sciences - Quran, Hadith, Fiqh, Aqidah, and all disciplines that bring one closer to Allah.

The warning is severe: one who studies these sacred sciences with worldly motives - seeking position, wealth, fame, or superiority over others - will be deprived of Paradise's fragrance. "Arf" signifies the sweet scent that believers will perceive from great distances before entering Paradise, indicating complete deprivation of its blessings.

Imam Al-Munawi comments that this hadith establishes the principle that deeds are judged by intentions, and even outwardly righteous acts become worthless when performed for other than Allah. The seeker of knowledge must constantly purify his intention, seeking only Allah's pleasure and the correct implementation of His commandments.

Scholars note that this doesn't prohibit benefiting from knowledge professionally, but rather condemns making worldly gain the primary intention. The righteous scholars taught that knowledge is a means to worship, not an end in itself for worldly attainment.

Practical Implications

Students and scholars must regularly examine their intentions when studying, teaching, or writing about Islamic sciences.

Worldly benefits that come as a natural consequence of seeking knowledge for Allah's sake are permissible, provided they remain secondary.

This hadith serves as a grave reminder that the spiritual consequences of corrupted intentions affect one's ultimate destiny in the Hereafter.