is required of you concerning them—by Allah’s granting you success—through knowledge, which is the foundation of all good and the means by which righteousness is attained. You must therefore seek it, for it enriches its seeker and ennobles its bearer. Moreover, it is the greatest means of attaining success in the Hereafter. Through it, doubtful matters are avoided and acts of devotion are performed soundly. How many a person has been driven farther from his Lord by his own deeds, while that by which he sought to draw near is recorded among his gravest sins! Allah Most High says:

“Say, ‘Shall We inform you of those who are the greatest losers in their deeds? They are those whose efforts have gone astray in the life of this world, while they think that they are doing good.’” (al-Kahf 103–104)

He Most High also says:

“Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ Only people of understanding take heed.” (al-Zumar 9)

He Most High says:

“Of His servants, only those possessed of knowledge fear Allah.” (Fātir 28)

And He Most High says:

“Allah will raise by degrees those of you who believe and those who have been given knowledge.” (al-Mujādilah 11)

The Virtues of Knowledge

Knowledge is a path that leads its possessor only to happiness and never fails to bring him to a rank of eminence and honor. A little of it benefits, while much of it elevates and exalts. It is a treasure that grows under all circumstances and increases when spent. No usurper can seize it, nor can any thief or armed aggressor threaten it.

Strive earnestly to seek it. Learn to find sweet the toil of memorizing it, the sleeplessness required to study it, and the prolonged exertion involved in gathering it. Persist in recording and transmitting it; then proceed to understanding it and acquiring mastery of it.

The Elevated Rank of the Learned

Consider which condition among the various classes of people you would choose and the station of which group you would prefer. Do you see anyone of higher standing than the scholars, or any station superior to that of the jurists? Ruler and subject alike need them, and the lowly and the eminent alike follow their example. Their pronouncements are consulted concerning worldly affairs and the rulings governing them,