Essential of Islam – Fard Ulum Course Date: June 6, 2023

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Key Points

1. Significance of Knowledge in Islam:
   • Quranic Ayahs:
     • Surah Fatir: “Only those from His slaves fear Allah who possess knowledge.” Emphasizes the connection between knowledge and the fear of Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ.
     • Surah Mujadila: “Allah will raise in degrees those of you who believe and those who are granted knowledge.”
     • Surah Zumar: Highlights that people with knowledge are superior in rank to those without.
   • Hadiths:
     • “Whoever Allah wills good for, He grants them understanding of the Deen.” (Narrated by Sayyiduna Mu’awiya رضي الله عنه, found in Tirmidhi and Bukhari.)
     • “The one who seeks knowledge is in the way of Allah until they return.” (Narrated by Sayyiduna Anas bin Malik رضي الله عنه, from Jami’ al-Tirmidhi.)
2. Virtues of Seeking Knowledge:
   • Seeking knowledge is more virtuous than:
     • Spending an entire night in worship.
     • Fasting for three months.
   • A knowledgeable person is stronger against Shaytan than a thousand worshippers.
3. Hadith on Lasting Good Deeds:
   • “When a person dies, all their deeds end except for three:
     1. Recurring charity (Sadaqah Jariyah).
     2. Beneficial knowledge shared with others.
     3. A pious child who prays for them.” (Narrated by Sayyiduna Abu Huraira رضي الله عنه.)
4. Importance of Beneficial Knowledge:
   • Beneficial knowledge refers specifically to Islamic knowledge that can guide oneself and others closer to Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ.
5. Practical Guidance:
   • Memorization and transmission of knowledge were emphasized historically by Sahaba (companions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ).
   • Learning is encouraged regardless of immediate practice, as knowledge precedes action.

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Quranic References

1. Surah Fatir (35:28): Connection between fear of Allah and knowledge.
2. Surah Mujadila (58:11): Allah raises in rank those who believe and are knowledgeable.
3. Surah Zumar (39:9): People with knowledge are distinct from those without.

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Highlighted Hadiths

1. “Whoever dies while seeking knowledge to revive Islam, their rank will be close to that of the Prophets in Jannah.” (Kanz al-Ummal)
2. “A Faqih (deeply knowledgeable in Deen) is more severe against Shaytan than a thousand worshippers.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
3. “Seeking knowledge for a moment is better than a night of worship.” (Kanz al-Ummal)

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Questions and Answers (Highlighted in Document)

1. Q: “What is beneficial knowledge?” A: Beneficial knowledge in Islam refers to any knowledge that brings oneself and others closer to Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ.
2. Q: “Can secular knowledge be considered beneficial?” A: Secular knowledge can be beneficial if used in a way that aligns with Islamic principles, such as earning through halal means or helping others avoid sin.
3. Q: “Why learn if one might not practice?” A: Imam Abu Hanifa رحمه الله advised, “Knowledge precedes action.” Learning creates the potential for practice and guidance.

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Summary

This document elaborates on the importance of acquiring knowledge in Islam, its spiritual significance, and the virtues associated with seeking and spreading Islamic knowledge. Quranic references and Hadiths underline that knowledge is a means of attaining closeness to Allah عَزَّ وَ جَلَّ and surpassing others in rank. Specific examples of Sahaba and their dedication to knowledge are highlighted, emphasizing the eternal rewards for acts like Sadaqah Jariyah, beneficial knowledge, and raising pious children.

Key lessons include:

• Knowledge is superior to worship without understanding.
• Learning Islamic principles leads to better practice and avoidance of error.
• Sharing beneficial knowledge ensures a legacy that continues to benefit even after death.

This course provides a structured path for participants to develop their own “handbook” for lifelong reference and teaching others.