SHAFAQNA – Imam Ali (AS) used various phrases to describe ignorance: The most destructive enemy, the worst type of illness, the source of all evil, the greatest calamity, the worst type of poverty and difficulty, death and destruction [1]. The signs of the ignorant human being are: 1) if they forbid him/her from something (a deed/an act), because of obstinacy he/she will do that particular deed/act. 2) Will get proud of his/her little knowledge. 3) Does not understand his/her own status. 4) Speaks about whatever he/she knows about. 5) Is neglectful of God’s torments. 6) His/her heart is attached to the world. 7) Has unreachable desires for himself/herself. 8) His/her friends are constantly changing. 9) Expresses disagreement with any issue. 10) Asks about issues which have no use. 11) Is deceived by his/her inner desires and wrongful thoughts. 12) Pretend to be knowledgeable about topics which he/she has no information about. 13) Answers back before fully hearing what others have to say. 14) Judges hastily before having enough information. 15) Goes to extremes (too excessive or too little effort) in regard to any task [2]
[1] Qorarul Hekam, Vol. 1, PP 202-213.
[2] Mizanul Hekmah, Vol. 1, PP 213-215.