If you were not to do it, it might be good for you. (So they abandoned this practice) and there was a decline in the yield. He (the Holy Prophet) happened to pass by them (and said): What has gone wrong with your trees? They said: You said so and so. Thereupon he said: You have better knowledge (of a technical skill) in the affairs of the world.
The Book of Virtues - Sahih Muslim 2363
This narration from Sahih Muslim presents a profound lesson in worldly expertise and religious guidance. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) initially advised some companions regarding agricultural practices, suggesting that if they refrained from a particular method, it might be better for them.
When they followed this counsel and experienced diminished yields, the Prophet recognized their practical expertise in worldly matters. His statement "You have better knowledge in the affairs of the world" establishes the important Islamic principle that specialized worldly knowledge resides with its practitioners.
This hadith demonstrates the Prophet's wisdom in distinguishing between religious guidance and technical expertise. While the companions rightly prioritized the Prophet's advice, he himself clarified that in matters of worldly skills and professions, those with specialized knowledge should exercise their judgment.
The incident serves as a foundational precedent for Islamic scholarship regarding the relationship between religious authority and professional expertise, emphasizing that competence in worldly affairs should be respected and utilized for the community's benefit.