What is the ruling on asking about the wisdom behind commands and prohibitions?

Question:
Is it an act of over-exertion to ask about the wisdom behind a command or the wisdom behind a prohibition in the commands and prohibitions?

Answer:
No, it is not an act of over-exertion. If he asks about what is apparent in order to increase his knowledge and insight, there is no harm. And if it is hidden, he should not over-exert himself, but rather say: Allah knows best, and praise be to Allah.
Q: Is this among the characteristics of ignorance?
A: Over-exertion is from ignorance; it stems from ignorance.
Q: There are those who say: I am a mujtahid, and perhaps this ijtihad of his is over-exertion?
A: If it is based on knowledge and insight, there is no harm. Or if it is based on legal principles when the need calls for it, there is no harm. Otherwise, he is one who over-exerts himself. The one who has no knowledge cannot... He should ask the people of knowledge and not be stubborn. He should speak with good words and do good deeds, and not be severe with himself, neither in action nor in speech.
Q: Some of them say: I am a scholar?
A: 'Umar said: "Whoever says he is a scholar is ignorant, and whoever says he is a believer is a disbeliever. He should say: A believer, if Allah wills." This is from the words of 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him), narrated from 'Umar.