Knowledge occupies a high rank in Islam, as Allah made it the foundation of human development and the means for progress and civilization. The first revelation began with a word that points to the value of knowledge. Allah says:
“Read! In the Name of your Lord, Who has created (all that exists). He has created man from a clot. Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous. Who has taught (the writing) by the pen. He has taught man that which he knew not.” [Al-‘Alaq: 1–5].
These verses indicate that knowledge is the key to guidance and the first blessing given to mankind after creation.
Allah has raised the status of those who possess knowledge:
“Say: Are those who know equal to those who know not?” [Az-Zumar: 9].
And He said:
“Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge.” [Al-Mujadila: 11].
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged seeking knowledge, considering it an obligation: “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.” [Ibn Majah]. He taught his companions and sent teachers to spread Islam across lands.
Knowledge in Islam is not confined to religious sciences but includes all beneficial knowledge such as medicine, astronomy, and useful crafts. This is why Islamic civilization became a beacon of learning and contributed to global progress.
The Prophet ﷺ also said: “The scholars are the inheritors of the prophets, and the prophets do not leave behind dinars or dirhams, but only knowledge.” [Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi]. This shows that knowledge is the legacy of prophethood and the key to preserving religion and building societies.
Thus, knowledge in Islam is not a luxury but a duty and a means for worshipping Allah with insight, developing the earth, and establishing a just civilization.
