Education

Knowledge is of two kinds: that which has been set forth in the Qur’an and the Hadith, and that which we acquire by our own research and endeavours. The first form of knowledge acquaints us with our Lord. It explains the issues we will have to face in the everlasting world that is waiting for us after death. It shows us how preparation can be made in this life to meet those issues. The second form of knowledge provides solutions to the everyday, social and economic problems we encounter in this world.

Muslims should seek both forms of knowledge. They should be familiar with both secular and religious sciences, although they vary in the degree of their importance. Knowledge of the Qur’an and Hadith should be the basic aim in life, and knowledge of other sciences a worldly necessity. Without knowledge of the Qur’an and the Hadith, one cannot understand what must be done in this world for one to earn everlasting salvation. The secular sciences, on the other hand, guide us in worldly matters. They instruct us in the practicalities of life. Knowledge of the Qur’an and the Hadith shows the way to building for eternity; other knowledge is a guide to worldly development alone.

It is just as important for a Muslim to study various branches of knowledge as it is for anyone else, but the Muslim should differentiate between aim and necessity. He studies the Qur’an and the Hadith for different reasons from those which prompt him to seek worldly knowledge.