Teach People According to Their Understanding

📖Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 127
Abu al-Tufayl reported: Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, said, “Speak to people only according to their level of knowledge. Would you like for Allah and His Messenger to be denied?

Description:

This hadith teaches that guidance should be shared according to a person’s ability to understand. Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “Speak to people only according to their level of knowledge. Would you like for Allah and His Messenger to be denied?” (Sahih al-Bukhari 127) While this hadith is not a direct saying of the Prophet ﷺ, its guidance aligns with the Qur’an, emphasizing that people should be taught according to their level of understanding to prevent confusion, misguidance, or leading them into sin.

Meaning:

Level of knowledge” means what a person can comprehend without confusion or doubt. Sharing knowledge or discussing topics beyond their understanding may mislead them, weaken their faith, or even cause them to commit sin. The aim is to protect their belief in Allah and His Messenger ﷺ, and keep them on the true path.

How It Applies:

1. Only teach what the listener can grasp and act upon.
2. Avoid subjects that may confuse, overwhelm, or mislead someone.
3. Do not share information that could provoke doubt, disbelief, or sinful actions.

Examples of Things to Share Carefully:

1. Complex theological concepts (e.g., attributes of God, unseen matters).
2. Advanced Qur’anic interpretations that require prior knowledge.
3. Discussions on moral or legal matters that may be misunderstood and lead to sin.
4. Any sensitive issues that could push a person toward rebellion, disbelief, or wrongful behavior.

Qur’anic Context:

📖Quran 16:125
Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is guided.

📖Quran 17:36
Do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart — about all those [one] will be questioned.

These teachings emphasize guiding others wisely, speaking according to their comprehension, and avoiding anything that could lead them away from Allah, His Messenger ﷺ, or toward sin. Proper guidance preserves faith and ensures that people follow the true path.