Question

Is the following Hadith authentic?

Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:

“Whoever goes out to learn a chapter of knowledge, with the intention of benefiting himself and to teach others, Allah will record the worship of one thousand (1000) years for each step he takes”

Answer

Imam Ibn ‘Adiy (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration on the authority of Sayyiduna ‘Imran ibn Husayn (radiyallahu ‘anhu) part of a longer narration. However, the Muhaddithun have declared the narration a fabrication. The Hadith is not suitable to quote.

(Al Kamil, vol. 2 pg. 292/293. Refer: Lisanul Mizan, vol. 1, pg. 223, Dhaylul La-Alil Masnu’ah, vol. 1, pg. 191, Hadith: 222 and Tanzihush Shari’ah, vol. 1, pg. 280)

There are many authentic narrations on the virtue seeking knowledge which should be quoted instead. See some examples here.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar