Is this statement correctly attributed to Imam Shafi’i (rahimahullah)?
ليس العلم ما حفظ، العلم ما نفع
Answer
Yes. Imam Abu Nu’aym and Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahumallah) have recorded this statement of Imam Shafi’i (rahimahullah).
(Hilyatul Awliya, vol. 9 pg. 123 and Al Madkhal ila ‘Ilmis Sunan, Hadith: 1623)
Translation
Knowledge is not what has been memorised, rather true knowledge is that which is beneficial
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar