sheep, and its keys came to be held in men’s hearts. A seeker of knowledge therefore needs a teacher to unlock it for him and clear the path before him. Some sages have said: Knowledge requires five things; whatever is lacking in any of them diminishes one’s knowledge proportionately. They are a penetrating mind, a compelling desire, a long life, financial means, and a teacher. Knowledge has five stages: first, exert yourself and listen; then ask questions so that you understand what you hear; then memorize what you understand; then act upon what you know; then teach what you know.

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Seeking knowledge, when done for the sake of Allah Most High and with sincere devotion to Him, is among the finest righteous deeds and the noblest voluntary acts of goodness. Allah Most High says:

“Allah will raise in rank those of you who believe and those who have been given knowledge.” [Al-Mujādila: 11]

He also says:

“Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’” [Al-Zumar: 9]

And:

“None understand them except those who have knowledge.” [Al-ʿAnkabūt: 43]

And:

“Only those of His servants who have knowledge truly fear Allah.” [Fātir: 28]

And:

“Whoever is given wisdom has indeed been given abundant good.” [Al-Baqara: 269]

Wisdom is explained in Quranic commentary as understanding Allah’s religion. The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“When Allah intends good for someone, He grants him understanding of the religion.”

He also said:

“Whoever follows a path seeking knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Paradise.”

It is also related:

“The angels lower their wings for the seeker of knowledge, pleased with what he does.”

Abū Hurayra said, “Whoever goes out in the morning or