Seeking knowledge has always been a core value in Islam, shaping hearts and guiding lives.
Among the many narrations that reflect this is the Hadith of Unwan Al-Basri — the account of an elderly man who approached Imam Ja‘far Al-Sadiq (a) in search of deeper spiritual understanding.
In this blog, we will briefly look at the events surrounding this meeting and explore three timeless lessons we can draw from it.
Unwan Al-Basri was a 94-year-old man who attended the lessons of Malik ibn Anas. In time, he also began to sit in the gatherings of Imam Ja‘far Al-Sadiq (as).
One day, the Imam (as) told him that he was occupied with other matters and advised him to continue his studies with Malik ibn Anas, as he had done before.
Saddened by this, Unwan Al-Basri prayed two rak‘ahs the next day, asking Allah (swt) to soften the Imam’s (as) heart towards him. After that, he stopped attending Malik ibn Anas’ lessons and would only leave his home to take part in congregational prayers (Salaat al-Jama‘ah).
Eventually, his longing for the Imam’s (as) knowledge grew so strong that, after one such prayer, he went to the Imam’s house.
He greeted the servant and asked permission to see the Imam (as). Before long, he was admitted, where he asked his questions and received the Imam’s (as) answers and wisdom.
This meeting is recorded in Bihar al-Anwar and is famously known as “The Hadith of Unwan Al-Basri.” It holds many lessons for those seeking knowledge and sincerity in their faith.
The first lesson from this event is never to abandon Salaat Al-Jama’ah. Despite feeling dejected, Unwan Al-Basri only left his house to pray in congregation.
The Prophet (saww) is reported to have said, “One prayer of a man in congregation is worthier than his forty years of prayers at home (alone).” (Mustradak-ul-Wasail, v.6)
Allah (swt) also tells us in Surah al-Baqarah, “So (accept the message of Islam), perform the prayers, pay the charity, and bow (in prayers) with those who bow down.” (2:43)
Praying together strengthens unity, reminds us that worship is not just a private act, and allows hearts to be nurtured in the presence of fellow believers.
This event also reminds us of the status of the Ahlulbayt (as). Unwan Al-Basri’s attachment to the Imam (as) grew so strong that he sought knowledge only from him, recognizing that no one else possessed the same depth of insight.
The Prophet (saww) is reported to have said, “The likeness of my Ahlulbayt (a) amongst my Ummah is similar to Nuh’s (as) ark. Those who embarked on it were rescued and those who rejected it perished.” (Bihar al-Anwar, v.27)
Holding firmly to the Ahlulbayt (as) is a safeguard for both our faith and our understanding of the truth.
Even at 94 years old, Unwan Al-Basri was actively seeking knowledge. In Islam, there is great emphasis on pursuing and acquiring knowledge throughout one’s life.
Imam Ja‘far Al-Sadiq (as) is reported to have said, “If people knew [the benefits] of seeking knowledge, they would seek it even if they had to shed blood or dive into the deepest seas.” (Awali al-La’ali, v.4)
In our modern world, where instant answers are readily available and AI tools can provide information in seconds, it is easy to mistake access to data for genuine understanding.
The Ahlulbayt (as) taught that real knowledge transforms the soul and character — something that cannot be rushed, bought, or reduced to quick content.
In a society focused on speed and constant revenue generation, we must be mindful not to lose the depth and sincerity with which knowledge should be sought.
The Hadith of Unwan Al-Basri reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge is not limited by age, circumstance, or the challenges we face. It is a lifelong journey that can transform individuals and communities.
This story also highlights the broader challenges many face in accessing education and opportunities. Orphaned and vulnerable children, along with widows and women with limited resources, often encounter barriers that make learning and personal growth difficult.
Reflecting on these realities encourages us to value education, support learning in all its forms, and recognize the lasting impact that knowledge and mentorship can have on lives and communities.
Unwan Al-Basri was a 94-year-old man who initially attended the classes of Malik ibn Anas before seeking knowledge from Imam Ja‘far Al-Sadiq (as). His encounter with the Imam (as) became known as the “Hadith of Unwan Al-Basri.”
This event is recorded in Bihar al-Anwar and can be found here.
It reminds us that learning is not limited by age or circumstance, and that true knowledge transforms character — something especially important in today’s fast-paced, information-driven world.
