‫ العلم‬Al-‘ILM (knowledge)

Ilm is the Arabic term for knowledge.

Knowledge refers to the information, facts, skills, and understanding that
individuals acquire through learning, experience, and education. It includes
awareness and comprehension of various subjects, concepts, and the world around us.
Knowledge can be both theoretical (book knowledge) and practical (hands-on
experience), and it forms the basis for making informed decisions and solving
problems in various aspects of life.
It represents the pursuit and acquisition of knowledge, which is highly regarded in
many cultures and religions. Knowledge is seen as a means to personal growth,
societal progress, and spiritual enlightenment. To attain “Ilm,” individuals must
be disciplined learners, engage in various methods of education, seek guidance from
mentors, practice critical thinking, and continuously adapt to new information.
Students and those on a quest for “Ilm” play important roles in their own
education, which includes being active learners, inquirers, and collaborators.
“Ilm” encompasses various fields and subjects, making it a lifelong journey of
discovery, personal development, and the sharing of knowledge with others.

‫علم الدين‬ Al-Ilm Al-Deen ( Islamic knowledge)

Islamic knowledge refers to the knowledge and teachings associated with the
religion of Islam. It encompasses a wide range of subjects and areas, including:

1. Quranic Knowledge: Understanding and interpreting the Quran, which is

the holy book of Islam.
2. Hadith: The collection and study of sayings and actions of the Prophet
Muhammad, known as Hadith, which provide guidance for Muslims.
3. Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence): The study of Islamic laws and
regulations, including matters of religious practice, morality, and ethics.
4. Tafsir: The interpretation and commentary of the Quranic verses to gain
a deeper understanding of their meanings.
5. Aqeedah (Theology): Belief systems and the study of Islamic creed and
doctrine.
6. Islamic History: The history of Islam, including the life of Prophet
Muhammad and the early Islamic community.
7. Islamic Ethics and Morality: Guidelines for ethical behavior and moral
conduct in accordance with Islamic principles.
8. Islamic Sciences: Various fields of knowledge, such as Islamic
astronomy, medicine, mathematics, and architecture, which were developed by Islamic
scholars in the past.

Islamic knowledge is essential for us Muslims to understand our faith, practice our
religion, and lead a righteous life according to Islamic teachings. It is typically
acquired through formal education in Islamic schools and universities, as well as
through self-study and guidance from knowledgeable scholars.
In Islam, acquiring knowledge (ilm) is highly valued and encouraged. Here are some
of the benefits and significance of ilm in Islam:

1. Worship and Obedience: Knowledge of Islamic teachings and principles

enables Muslims to better understand and fulfill their religious obligations. It
helps them in performing acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and charity,
correctly and with sincerity.
2. Guidance: Ilm provides guidance on how to lead a righteous and moral
life according to Islamic principles. It offers insights into ethical behavior,
personal conduct, and interactions with others.
3. Intellectual Growth: Acquiring knowledge promotes intellectual growth
and critical thinking. It encourages Muslims to seek answers, explore new ideas,
and deepen their understanding of the world.
 4. Ibadah (Worship) with Understanding: It allows individuals to worship
with a deeper understanding of the meanings and significance behind their acts of
devotion, fostering a stronger connection with Allah.
5. Spiritual Development: Knowledge of Islam can lead to spiritual
development by increasing one’s faith, devotion, and mindfulness of God in daily
life.
6. Community Leadership: Those with knowledge (scholars) often play a
crucial role in guiding the community, resolving disputes, and imparting religious
teachings.
7. Personal Growth: Ilm promotes personal growth, character development,
and the ability to make informed decisions that align with Islamic values.
8. Problem Solving: Knowledge equips individuals with the tools to address
contemporary issues and challenges facing the Muslim community and the broader
society.
9. Dawah (Invitation to Islam): Knowledge empowers Muslims to effectively
share and explain their faith to others, contributing to the spread of Islam.
10. Worldly Benefits: Islamic knowledge is not limited to religious
matters; it also encompasses various fields of study, such as science, medicine,
and mathematics. This knowledge can bring about advancements and improvements in
various aspects of life.

In Islam, the pursuit of knowledge is seen as a noble and virtuous endeavor, and it
is believed that seeking knowledge is a means of drawing closer to Allah and
benefiting oneself and the community. This emphasis on knowledge has a profound
impact on the life of a Muslim, both spiritually and intellectually.
QURANIC VERSES ABOUT ILM
The Quran contains several verses that emphasize the importance of knowledge (ilm).
Here are a few Quranic verses that highlight the significance of acquiring
knowledge:
1. Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11):
“O you who have believed, when you are told, ‘Space yourselves’ in assemblies, then
make space; Allah will make space for you. And when you are told, ‘Arise,’ then
arise; Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given
knowledge, by degrees. And Allah is Acquainted with what you do.”
2. Surah Al-Zumar (39:9):
“Are those who know equal to those who do not know? Only they will remember [who
are] people of understanding.”
3. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269):
“He gives wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly
been given much good. But none will remember except those of understanding.”
4. Surah Al-Ankabut (29:20):
“Say, ‘Travel through the land and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will
produce the final creation. Indeed Allah, over all things, is competent.’”
5. Surah Al-Imran (3:190-191):
“Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the
night and the day are signs for those of understanding. Who remember Allah while
standing or sitting or [lying] on their sides and give thought to the creation of
the heavens and the earth, [saying], ‘Our Lord, You did not create this aimlessly;
exalted are You [above such a thing]; then protect us from the punishment of the
Fire.’”

These verses emphasize that knowledge is a gift from Allah, a source of wisdom and
understanding, and a means of recognizing His signs in the creation of the heavens
and the earth. They highlight the importance of those who possess knowledge and
understanding in the sight of Allah.
AHADEETHS OF THE PROPHET SAW ABOUT ILM
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of seeking
knowledge in numerous hadiths (sayings and actions of the Prophet). Here are some
notable hadiths about knowledge (ilm):
 1. Hadith of Seeking Knowledge as an Obligation:
The Prophet Muhammad said: “Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.”
(Ibn Majah)
2. Hadith on the Virtue of Knowledge and Scholars:
The Prophet Muhammad said: “The scholars are the heirs of the Prophets. They do not
inherit gold and silver but they inherit knowledge.” (Abu Dawood)
3. Hadith on the Superiority of the Scholar over the Worshipper:
The Prophet Muhammad said: “The superiority of the learned over the devout is like
my superiority over the most inferior amongst you (in good deeds).” (Tirmidhi)
4. Hadith on the Virtue of Teaching Knowledge:
The Prophet Muhammad said: “The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach
it to others.” (Al-Bukhari)
5. Hadith on the Value of Acquiring Useful Knowledge:
The Prophet Muhammad said: “Whoever follows a path to seek knowledge, Allah will
make the path to Paradise easy for him.” (Sahih Muslim)
6. Hadith on the Reward for Spreading Knowledge:
The Prophet Muhammad said: “When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for
three: Sadaqah Jariyah (a continuous charity), or knowledge from which benefit is
gained, or a righteous child who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim)

These hadiths emphasize that seeking and imparting knowledge is not only highly
virtuous but also a means of spiritual elevation and reward in the sight of Allah.
They underscore the importance of scholars in preserving and transmitting Islamic
knowledge to subsequent generations.

Attaining “Ilm” (knowledge) is a noble endeavor. Here are some steps to help you on
your journey:

1. Formal Education: Enroll in schools, colleges, or universities to gain

structured knowledge in various fields.
2. Self-Study: Read books, articles, and research papers to educate
yourself on specific topics of interest.
3. Online Courses: Take advantage of online platforms offering courses in
various subjects, often at your own pace.
4. Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced individuals in your chosen
field who can provide valuable insights.
5. Workshops and Seminars: Attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to
learn from experts and network with like-minded individuals.
6. Observation: Learn by observing and analyzing the world around you,
drawing conclusions from your experiences.
7. Experimentation: Gain practical knowledge through hands-on
experimentation, especially in fields like science and technology.
8. Discussion and Debate: Engage in discussions and debates with others to
refine your understanding and learn from different perspectives.
9. Critical Thinking: Develop critical thinking skills to question,
analyze, and evaluate information effectively.
10. Travel and Cultural Exposure: Explore different cultures and
environments to gain a broader perspective and cultural knowledge.
11. Continual Curiosity: Cultivate a mindset of continual curiosity and a
thirst for learning new things.
12. Media and Information Sources: Stay informed through reliable news
sources, documentaries, and educational programs.
13. Spiritual and Philosophical Exploration: Seek spiritual or
philosophical knowledge through religious texts, meditation, or philosophical
literature.
14. Networking: Build a network of knowledgeable individuals who can share
insights and resources with you.
 15. Teaching: Teaching others can deepen your own understanding of a
subject.

Remember that knowledge is a lifelong pursuit, and the methods you choose will
depend on your interests, goals, and available resources. Keep an open mind and
stay dedicated to your pursuit of “Ilm.”

Aadhabul Ilm and roles of a Taalibul ilm

Seeking “Ilm” (knowledge) requires discipline to ensure effective and consistent

learning. Here are some key disciplines to adopt:

1. Time Management: Allocate dedicated time for studying and learning.

Create a schedule that balances your academic pursuits with other responsibilities.
2. Consistency: Establish a regular routine for studying and stick to it.
Consistency in your learning habits will lead to better retention of knowledge.
3. Setting Goals: Define clear, achievable learning goals. Having specific
objectives will help you stay motivated and track your progress.
4. Active Engagement: Be actively engaged in your learning process.
Actively participate in classes, discussions, and activities related to your field
of study.
5. Curiosity: Cultivate a curious mindset. Ask questions, seek answers,
and explore topics beyond the required curriculum.
6. Organized Learning: Organize your study materials, notes, and resources
in an orderly manner. This will help you retrieve information more efficiently.
7. Effective Study Techniques: Learn and apply effective study techniques
such as summarization, self-testing, and spaced repetition.
8. Limit Distractions: Create a conducive study environment by minimizing
distractions, whether they be physical or digital.
9. Continuous Assessment: Regularly assess your understanding through
quizzes, self-assessments, or practice tests to identify areas that need
improvement.
10. Resource Management: Use your learning resources wisely, including
textbooks, online courses, libraries, and educational technology.
11. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep,
nutrition, and exercise to ensure your mind is in optimal condition for learning.
12. Critical Thinking: Develop critical thinking skills to evaluate
information, make informed decisions, and solve problems effectively.
13. Note-Taking: Master effective note-taking techniques to capture key
points during lectures or while reading.
14. Seek Feedback: Be open to feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers.
Constructive feedback can help you improve your understanding and skills.
15. Networking: Build a network of peers and mentors who share your passion
for learning and can provide support and insights.
16. Adaptability: Be willing to adapt your learning strategies as needed.
Different subjects may require different approaches.
17. Ethical Conduct: Uphold academic integrity and ethical standards in all
your academic endeavors.
18. Reflect and Review: Periodically review what you’ve learned, connecting
new knowledge to existing concepts, and reflecting on your growth.

Remember that discipline in seeking knowledge is an ongoing process. Embrace

challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth, and remain committed to your
quest for “Ilm.”

Da’awah in Ilm

“Dawah” in the context of “Ilm” (knowledge) typically refers to the act of inviting
or conveying knowledge, particularly religious or spiritual knowledge, to others.
It’s often associated with Islamic teachings, where it involves sharing the message
of Islam with the intention of guiding or educating others about the faith.

Here are some key aspects of “Dawah” in the context of “Ilm”:

1. Clarity: When conveying knowledge or religious teachings, it’s

important to do so clearly and understandably so that others can grasp the concepts
being presented.
2. Respect: Approach “Dawah” with respect for others’ beliefs and
perspectives. It should be a respectful and constructive dialogue rather than a
confrontational one.
3. Knowledge: As a person involved in “Dawah,” you should have a strong
understanding of the knowledge you are conveying. This includes not only knowledge
of the faith but also the ability to answer questions and address misconceptions.
4. Patience: Effective “Dawah” often requires patience. People may have
questions or doubts, and it’s important to address them with patience and empathy.
5. Listening: It’s equally important to listen to the concerns and
questions of those you are engaging with. This helps in tailoring your approach to
their specific needs.
6. Engagement: Engage in meaningful conversations and discussions.
Encourage open dialogue and be willing to engage in discussions that promote mutual
understanding.
7. Lead by Example: Your own behavior and conduct should reflect the
teachings you are conveying. Leading by example can be a powerful form of “Dawah.”
8. Customized Approach: Recognize that different individuals may have
different needs and levels of understanding. Tailor your approach to their specific
circumstances.
9. Knowledge Sharing: Share knowledge not only through words but also
through actions, community involvement, and positive contributions to society.
10. Invitation, Not Imposition: “Dawah” should be an invitation to explore
and understand, not an imposition of beliefs. Respect individuals’ autonomy in
making their own choices.
11. Continual Learning: “Dawah” often involves ongoing learning and self-
improvement. Deepen your own knowledge and understanding to be more effective in
conveying it to others.

“Dawah” is not limited to Islam and can be applied in various religious and
spiritual contexts where knowledge-sharing and inviting others to explore one’s
faith or beliefs are important aspects of the practice.

Certainly, Islamic tradition has many stories that emphasize the importance of
knowledge (ilm). Here are a couple of famous ones:

1. The Story of Imam Ali (AS) and the Candle:

Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (peace be
upon him), once said, “Knowledge enlivens the soul.” To illustrate this, he told a
story. One night, he noticed a man studying by the light of a candle. Imam Ali
asked the man what he was doing, and the man replied that he was studying. Ali then
blew out the candle and asked, “What happened to your knowledge?” The man
responded, “It’s gone!” Imam Ali said, “Knowledge is the light of the heart.
Without it, you are in darkness.”
2. The Story of Prophet Solomon (AS):
Prophet Solomon (Sulaiman in Islam) is known for his wisdom and knowledge. In one
famous story, he asked his followers who among them could bring him the throne of
the Queen of Sheba (Bilqis) before she could arrive. A wise man named Asif ibn
Barkhiya, who had knowledge of the unseen, immediately offered to bring it. With
his knowledge and the power bestowed upon him, he brought the throne to Solomon in
the blink of an eye. This story illustrates the significance of divine knowledge
and its extraordinary capabilities.
 3. The Story of Imam Al-Shafi’i:
Imam Al-Shafi’i, a renowned Islamic scholar, was known for his dedication to
seeking knowledge from a young age. It is said that as a child, he would memorize
the Quran quickly, and his thirst for knowledge led him to study under various
scholars. Once, while he was studying, he passed by the house of Imam Malik,
another great scholar. He saw a crow with a piece of bread in its beak perched on a
branch, and it dropped the bread into a puddle to soften it before eating. Imam Al-
Shafi’i was so struck by this act of nature that he realized the importance of
proper preparation and foundation in seeking knowledge. He said, “I have learned
two lessons from that crow: to seek knowledge with diligence and to be patient in
acquiring it.”
4 The Story of Imam Bukhari:
Imam Bukhari, the compiler of Sahih al-Bukhari, one of the most authentic
collections of Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), is renowned for
his meticulous approach to seeking knowledge. It is said that he traveled
extensively, covering thousands of miles to gather Hadith from various sources. One
story tells of how he once came across a man who claimed to have a vast collection
of Hadith. Imam Bukhari tested the man’s knowledge by presenting a fabricated
Hadith. When the man accepted it as genuine, Imam Bukhari realized the importance
of verifying the authenticity of sources and ensuring the purity of knowledge.

These stories emphasize the value of seeking knowledge and how it can illuminate
one’s life, both spiritually and practically, in Islamic tradition.