Keeping silent Quote by Franz Rosenthal
““Buzurjmihr esteems knowledge more highly than wealth, with reference to the anecdote cited below, According to the hadîth, flattery is permissible only in the search for knowledge. Ibn Abbâs: “I was humble when seeking (knowledge as a student), and I was mighty when sought (to give instruction as a teacher).” He shows great respect to the Ansâr as bearers of the knowledge of the Prophet. “The first part of knowledge is keeping silent; the second, listening; the third, memorizing; the fourth, reasoning; and the fifth spreading it.” In the company of scholars, it is better to listen than to talk. “He who worships God in his youth receives wisdom from God in his old age” (cf. Qur- ân 28:14/13). A sage among the men around the Prophet represents wisdom as saying that it is with those who act in accordance with their best knowledge and avoid all that is very bad in their knowledge. “A scholar (- âlim) has no contempt for those who know less than he, and no envy of those who know more, and he does not use his knowledge to make money.””
About This Quote
Source Hadith: Collection of sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, 7th century
Knowledge is valued above wealth; humility in learning and generosity in teaching are virtues; flattery is allowed only when seeking knowledge.
In simple terms: Knowledge > wealth; be humble and share what you learn.
Key Takeaway
Seek knowledge, stay humble, teach freely.
Themes
humility
learning
generosity
ethics
Mood
respectful
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- student life
- teacher mentorship
- religious study
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Islamic teachings
scholarly conduct
knowledge transmission
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance humility and confidence in learning?
- When should you share knowledge versus keep it private?
A Different Perspective
Flattery can be misused if not tied to genuine learning.
