Knowledge
by Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azīz Ibn Bāz
'...It is very clear that the merits and virtues of knowledge
vary depending on the extent of one's adherence to it. The
greatest and most excellent knowledge is that which pertains to
Allaah, His names, and His attributes, and this knowledge is
known as 'aqeedah (belief). Indeed to Allaah, the Exalted and
Supreme, belongs the best example which is the highest
description in every aspect of His essence, names, attributes and
actions.
Following this is that which is related to Allaah's right over
His creation, what He has prescribed upon them. Following this is
what supports and bonds it in understanding such as knowledge of
the principles of Arabic, Islamic terminology, principles of fiqh,
hadeeth methodology and other sciences which are connected to
this knowledge, which assist it in both understanding and
precision.
The biography of the Prophet (saw), Islamic history, biography
of the narrators of hadeeth and of the scholars of Islaam are
also part of this knowledge.'
Ibid. (pp.10-11):
'...So this shows us the great excellence of the students of
knowledge. For whoever corrects his intention in seeking
knowledge and desires only His Face, he is on a road to salvation
(from the Fire) and happiness (in Paradise).
Knowledge should be sought for the right reasons and for its
implementation (acting according to the knowledge) not for the
sake of ostentation (riyaa'), fame, or for the sake of any other
gain from the ephemeral gains of this world; rather, he learns it
to be acquainted with his Deen, to have insight into what Allaah
has made incumbent upon him, to strive to take the people out of
darkness and into the light, so he seeks knowledge and acts upon
it and teaches others about the good that a Muslim is ordered to
do.
Every path that he takes in search of knowledge is a way to
Paradise; this is true for every path, literal or otherwise: his
journey from one country to another; going from one circle of
knowledge to another; and from one mosque to another for the sole
intention of seeking knowledge, likewise memorizing and studying
Islamic books of knowledge, perusal and writing are also from the
ways of seeking knowledge.
A proper student is concerned with all these paths that lead
to knowledge. He seeks it, desiring the Face of His Lord, the
Mighty and the Majestic. He wants to seek Allaah's pleasure and a
home in Paradise; he wants to understand and reflect upon His
Deen; he wants to know what Allaah has made incumbent upon him
and what He has prohibited him from, then acts accordingly; he
wants to know his Lord with insight and cognizance; he wants to
rescue people (from the Fire of Hell); he wants to be amongst the
guided callers striving for the truth; and he wants to guide
people to Allaah through knowledge. So wherever he turns he is in
great excellence with these correct intentions...'
Ibid. (pp.20-22):
'...The student of knowledge should take great care about
being lazy about what Allaah has made obligatory and from falling
into that which He has forbidden - for others will follow him in
it. Likewise he should not be neglectful of the sunnah [Tr.note:
...Here Shaykh Ibn Baaz uses the word sunnah to mean the
recommended deeds...] and the makroohaat. If he becomes lazy
others will also become lazy. It is important that he takes care
in reviving the Sunnah, even though a particular act may not be
compulsory, in order to encourage the people to follow it, and to
be an example for them. He (the student of knowledge) must keep
away from the makroohaat and doubtful matters so that the people
do not imitate him.
The student of knowledge has great significance and the people
of knowledge are the select amongst the creation. Upon them are
obligations and responsibilities over and above everyone else.
The Messenger (saw) said, "Everyone is a shepherd, and is
responsible for his flock." [Bukhaaree] The people of knowledge
are shepherds and guides. They should be concerned about society
as it is their flock...'