What is the authenticity of this narration?
Sayyiduna Anas (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:
“Seeking knowledge is compulsory upon every Muslim. The one who imparts knowledge to those who are not worthy of it, is like one who places a necklace of jewels, pearls and gold around the neck of a swine.”
Answer
Imam Ibn Majah (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration with a very weak chain.
(Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith: 224. Refer: Mizanul I’tidal, vol. 1 pg. 510, number: 2024, Taqribut Tahdhib: 1405 and Al Maqasidul Hasanah, Hadith: 660)
The first part of the Hadith ‘Seeking knowledge is compulsory upon every Muslim’ has been declared sound by several Muhaddithun due to corroboration.
(Refer: Al Maqasidul Hasanah, Hadith: 660 and Mukhtasarul Maqasid, Hadith: 614. Also see Faydul Qadir, Hadith: 5265)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar