Hadith Text & Reference

"Whoever is asked about some knowledge that he knows, then he conceals it, he will be bridled with bridle of fire." (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2649)

Meaning & Context

This hadith from "Chapters on Knowledge" in Jami' at-Tirmidhi addresses the grave sin of withholding beneficial knowledge from those who seek it. The Prophet (ﷺ) uses the powerful imagery of a "bridle of fire" to illustrate the severe punishment awaiting those who conceal knowledge they possess.

The "bridle" (lujam) represents a restraint placed in the mouth, symbolizing how the concealer's own knowledge becomes an instrument of their punishment in the Hereafter.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam at-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan (good), and scholars explain that this prohibition applies to religious knowledge that people need for their faith and practice. Concealing such knowledge is considered a betrayal of the trust placed in scholars and learned individuals.

The punishment is particularly severe because the concealer prevents others from benefiting from guidance that could lead them to Paradise, while the concealer themselves faces Hellfire.

Exceptions & Qualifications

Scholars note exceptions: knowledge may be withheld if sharing it would cause harm, misguidance, or if the seeker intends to misuse it. Also, worldly knowledge without religious significance doesn't fall under this prohibition.

The obligation applies when the questioner genuinely seeks beneficial knowledge and the knowledgeable person is capable of conveying it properly.

Moral Implications

This teaching emphasizes Islam's encouragement of spreading knowledge and the communal responsibility of scholars. It warns against intellectual arrogance and highlights that knowledge is a divine trust to be shared for the benefit of the Ummah.

The imagery serves as a powerful reminder that in the Hereafter, our deeds and knowledge will either testify for us or against us.