Exposition of the Hadith

This noble tradition from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) establishes the superiority of those who engage with the Qur'an through learning and teaching. The phrase "best among you" indicates spiritual and religious excellence in the sight of Allah.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith demonstrates the virtue of both learning and teaching the Qur'an. The learning encompasses proper recitation (tajwid), understanding its meanings (tafsir), and implementing its rulings.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes in Fath al-Bari that the sequence "learns and teaches" indicates that one should first acquire knowledge properly before imparting it to others, ensuring correct transmission of the divine text.

The comprehensive nature of "best among you" includes both worldly and religious excellence, as the Qur'an contains guidance for all aspects of human life.

Practical Implications

This teaching encourages Muslims to prioritize Qur'anic education in their lives, whether through formal study circles, personal reflection, or teaching others - even a single verse.

The merit extends to all involved in Qur'anic education: students, teachers, and those who facilitate such learning environments, all sharing in the reward mentioned by the Prophet.

Related Teachings

This hadith connects with other Prophetic traditions emphasizing the excellence of Qur'an reciters and those who gather to study Allah's book, as mentioned in Mishkat al-Masabih 2109 and other collections.

The book "The Excellent Qualities of the Qur'an" from Mishkat al-Masabih elaborates on the special status granted to those who maintain a relationship with the Qur'an through learning and teaching.