And Allah—glorified be He—commanded His Prophet ﷺ to ask Him for an increase in knowledge:
Allah the Exalted says, “And say: ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge.’” (Quran 20:114)

Al-Ḥāfiẓ Ibn Ḥajar commented, “This verse is a clear proof of the virtue of knowledge, for Allah did not order His Prophet ﷺ to seek an increase in anything except knowledge. The Prophet ﷺ also called the gatherings in which beneficial knowledge is learned riyāḍ al-jannah (gardens of Paradise) and informed us that the scholars are the heirs of the prophets.”

There is no doubt that before undertaking any action, a person must know the correct way to perform it, so that the act is valid and produces its intended outcome. How then can one embark upon the worship of his Lord—which determines his salvation from the Fire and his entry into Paradise—without knowledge?

Accordingly, in relation to knowledge and action people divide into three groups:

1. Those who combine beneficial knowledge with righteous deeds. Allah has guided these to the path of those upon whom He has bestowed His favor—the prophets, the steadfast affirmers of truth, the martyrs, and the righteous. What excellent companions they are!
2. Those who acquired beneficial knowledge but failed to act upon it. These are the ones who have incurred wrath, from among the Jews and all who emulate them.