According to some hadiths, God made a covenant with the knowledgeable to teach others what they know before making a covenant with the ignorant to learn what they do not know. Generosity is a commendable trait everywhere, including in the realm of knowledge.

However, some people hoard knowledge and do not share what they know. This undesirable trait is called "scientific stinginess." However, there are also people who generously and graciously teach others what they know. They not only suffer no loss, but also gain; their knowledge increases.

Similarly, paying zakat (almsgiving) on wealth leads to its growth. Similarly, sharing knowledge makes it more abundant and fruitful. As Imam Ali (a) advised his loyal companion Kumayl, "Wealth decreases when spent, but knowledge grows through sharing and transferring to others" (Nahj al-Balagha, Wisdom 147).

A wise person learns from others what they do not know and teaches others what they know. A scholar should be like the sun, the rain, and the tree that bears fruit.