Say, "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" (Surah Az-Zumar: 9)
Seeking knowledge in Islam is not just about gathering information; it's about fueling the light that Allah places within the hearts.
This journey is for those who yearn for something beyond the ordinary—a clarity that cuts through the noises of this world and draws the heart closer to its Creator.
True Islamic knowledge isn't merely studied; it's felt, cherished, honoured and lived. It transforms us, allowing us to see beyond the surface and walk the straight path.
If you feel that inner stirring, that subtle pull towards this sacred quest, know that you're being invited onto an honourable path. Are you ready to heed that call and embark on a journey that fuels your faith and grounds you in timeless wisdom? Let's begin this journey together.
This guide will provide you with 20 practical tips to help you embark on your journey of studying Islam, equipping you with essential principles to carry throughout your path to knowledge.
1. Purifying the Vessel of Knowledge
Knowledge is like a light, and the heart is its vessel. Without a pure heart, knowledge cannot settle or bring true benefit.
- As scholars say,
"العلم جوهر لطيف لا يصلح إلا للقلب النظيف"
“Knowledge is a subtle gem, only befitting of a clean heart.”
This highlights the importance of ridding ourselves of doubts, false beliefs, and arrogance.
- Allah ﷻ warns in the Qur’an:
"سَأَصْرِفُ عَنْ آيَاتِيَ الَّذِينَ يَتَكَبَّرُونَ فِي الْأَرْضِ بِغَيْرِ الْحَقِّ"
“I will turn away from My signs those who act unjustly with arrogance in the land.” (Surah Al-A'raf: 146)
Be keen to protect your heart from being tarnished by worldly desires and distractions.
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
"إن الله لا ينظر إلى صوركم وأموالكم ولكن ينظر إلى قلوبكم وأعمالكم"
“Allah does not look at your appearance or wealth, but He looks at your hearts and actions.” (Sahih Muslim 2564)
Strive to keep your heart free from anything that distances you from Allah, for a pure heart opens the door to true understanding.
2. Setting the Groundwork for Your Pursuit
Sincerity is the cornerstone of seeking knowledge.
- Allah ﷻ commands us:
"وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ"
“They were not commanded except to worship Allah, being sincere to Him in religion.”(Surah Al-Bayyinah: 5)
- The Prophet ﷺ reminded us in a hadith:
"إنما الأعمال بالنيات، ولكل امرئ ما نوى"
“Actions are judged by intentions, and each person will be rewarded according to what they intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1)
Seeking knowledge for fame, respect, or status taints its true essence. A student should approach every lesson, every book, and every study session with a sincere intention to draw closer to Allah. This pure intention fuels the journey, making each step rewarding, no matter how challenging the path may be.
3. The Sky Isn’t the Limit
Why settle for easily achievable goals when you have the potential to reach the stars? Islam encourages us to aim high, to seek excellence in our pursuits, and to set our sights on lofty goals.
High aspirations inspire us to push beyond comfort, continuously striving to grow, improve, and achieve what seems beyond reach.
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
"احرص على ما ينفعك واستعن بالله ولا تعجز"
“Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not give up.” (Sahih Muslim 2664)
- Dream big in your pursuit of knowledge. Ibn al-Qayyim رحمه الله said in a beautiful statement:
"إذا طلع نجم الهمة في ظلام ليل البطالة، وردفه قمر العزيمة، أشرقت أرض القلب بنور ربها"
“If the star of aspiration rises in the darkness of idleness, and it is followed by the moon of determination, the earth of the heart will be illuminated by the light of its Lord.” (Al-Fawaa'id)
Set ambitious goals and push yourself to excel in every area of knowledge—whether it's learning the Qur'an, memorising Hadith, studying Tafsir, mastering Arabic, or any other pursuit.
Aim high, knowing that even if you don’t achieve everything, the journey itself will elevate and enrich you. With each step forward, you draw closer to Allah and gain a deeper understanding, making every effort valuable and rewarding in His sight.
4. Anchoring Your Pursuit in Revelation
The Qur’an and Sunnah are the pillars of Islamic knowledge.
- Scholars have said:
"العلم في أصلين لا يعدوهما إلا المضُِلّ عن الطريق اللاّحبِ: علمُ الكتاب، وعلم الآثار"
“Knowledge is found in two sources, and whoever transgresses them is misguided: Knowledge of the Book and knowledge of the narrations.” (Qadi Iyad al-Yahsubi in his book Al-Ilma’ ila Ma’rifat Usul al-Riwaya wa Taqyid al-Sama’)
Every other discipline—whether Arabic, Usul al-Fiqh, Mustalah al-Hadith, or the various other sciences—serves to deepen your understanding of the Qur'an and Sunnah, the primary sources of Islam. Make it a habit to study the Qur'an, commit it to memory, and engage deeply with authentic ahadith. These are the true treasures that will broaden your horizons and lay a solid foundation of Islamic knowledge.
5. Taking the Proper Path to Knowledge
Knowledge isn’t just about reading; it’s about living what you learn.
- Scholars have said:
"ليس بعلم ما حواه القمطر، ما العلم إلا ما حواه الصدر"
“Knowledge is not that which is contained in books; knowledge is what is contained in the chest.” (Jaami’u Lil Akhlaaq Ar-Raawi Wal Adaab As-Saami’)
To seek knowledge in Islam effectively, you must follow a structured and time-tested approach that leads to understanding and closeness to Allah. Your journey begins with the Qur’an, the ultimate source of guidance. Following this, include concise and foundational texts like The Forty Hadith of Imam al-Nawawi, a basic Fiqh manual within your madhhab, and Aqeedah works such as Usūl al-Thalāthah followed by Kitāb al-Tawḥīd.
Don’t limit yourself to one subject. Take from every major Islamic science, including Hadith, Fiqh, and Aqeedah, to develop a comprehensive understanding.
Choose your teachers wisely. Learn from those who are knowledgeable, sincere, and recommended by trusted scholars. Books are valuable, but a teacher’s guidance helps you understand and apply knowledge properly.
6. Prioritising and Balancing the Sciences in Knowledge
A student of knowledge must prioritise learning by focusing on the most important subjects first, while not neglecting other sciences entirely. The proper approach avoids extremes: neither sticking to just one subject nor trying to study everything without order.
Islamic knowledge begins with the Qur’an, followed by the Sunnah, and then the sciences that support and stem from these sources.
- Ibn al-Jawzī said:
"جمع العلوم ممدوح من كل فن خذ ولا تجهل به فالحر مطلع على الأسرار"
"Gathering different types of knowledge is praiseworthy: Take from every science, and do not be ignorant of it; for the free person is one who looks into the secrets [of different sciences]."
All Islamic sciences have value, and dismissing any subject reflects a lack of understanding.
- As the poet said:
"أتاني أن سهلا ذم جهلا *** علوما ليس يعرفهن سهل
علوما لو قراها ما قلاها *** ولكن الرضا بالجهل سهل"
"It reached me that Sahl censured out of ignorance; sciences that Sahl did not know. Sciences that if he knew them, he would not have detested them; but contentment with ignorance is sahl (easy)."
Key Principles for Benefiting from the Sciences
- Prioritise in Order of Importance: Arrange the sciences in order of their significance, focusing first on what a student needs to fulfill the responsibilities of servitude to Allāh.
- Master Summarised Texts First: Focus on concise texts in each science to create a strong framework for further study.
This balanced, systematic approach ensures meaningful progress, laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning.
7. The Hidden Ingredient of Every Great Seeker
Knowledge isn’t gained overnight—it takes dedication and resilience.
- Allah ﷻ says:
"يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱصْبِرُوا۟ وَصَابِرُوا۟ وَرَابِطُوا۟ وَٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ "
“O believers! Patiently endure, persevere, stand on guard, and be mindful of Allah, so you may be successful.” (Surah Aal-Imran: 200)
- And as Yahya ibn Kathir said,
"لا يستطاع العلم براحة الجسم"
“Knowledge is not gained by the comfort of the body.” (Sahih Muslim 612f)
Acquiring knowledge demands immense dedication and often requires sacrificing personal comfort. It means spending long nights studying, foregoing rest, and pushing through moments of fatigue and hardship. True seekers of knowledge know that deep understanding isn’t gained through a life of ease, but by stepping outside one’s comfort zone and persevering, even when the challenges feel insurmountable.
This pursuit calls for steadfastness and patience—qualities that Allah rewards greatly. Remember, each moment spent striving for beneficial knowledge is an act of worship when pursued with the right intention. Though the path may be difficult, the rewards are beyond measure, both in this life and in the Hereafter. Remaining committed to this noble endeavour, despite the discomfort and obstacles, leads to a profound connection with one’s faith and a deeper understanding of divine revelation.
8. Elevating Your Pursuit Through Etiquette
Good manners are essential for anyone seeking knowledge.
- Ibn al-Qayyim رحمه الله said,
"أدب المرء عنوان سعادته وفلاحه، وقلة أدبه عنوان شقاوته وبواره"
“A person’s manners are the sign of their ultimate happiness and success, and a lack of manners is a sign of their wretchedness and destruction.” (Madarij Al-Salikeen, volume 2, page 408)
Knowledge does not settle in a heart lacking respect. Approach your teachers with humility, treat knowledge with reverence, and guard yourself against arrogance. Respect opens doors, allowing you to benefit from everyone upon the Sunnah—from scholars to peers, and even from books and experiences.
9. Journeying with the Righteous
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
"الرجل على دين خليله، فلينظر أحدكم من يخالل"
“A man is upon the religion of his close friend, so let each of you look at whom he takes as a friend.” (Sunan Abi Dawood 4833)
Your companions can either elevate or hinder your journey; as the saying goes, they can make you or break you. Surround yourself with those who inspire you to be better, guide you towards Allah, and encourage your pursuit of knowledge. Good friends offer motivation, reminders, and support on this challenging path of salvation—a path that demands resilience and commitment.
10. Making the Most of Your Prime Time
Youth is the prime time for seeking knowledge.
- Al-Hasan Al-Basri likened youth to something fleeting, saying:
"ما شبهت الشباب إلا بشيء كان في كمي فسقط"
“I would not compare youth to anything but something that was in my sleeve and fell out.” (Qimatu az-Zaman ‘Inda al-‘Ulama)
If you’re young, don’t wait—dive into the boundless oceans of knowledge while your memory is sharp and your mind is open.
Don’t miss the chance to be among those who will stand under Allah’s shade on the Day of Judgment, those who grew up in the worship of their Lord. But if you’re older, remember that seeking knowledge is a lifelong journey that knows no age limits.
Every day is an opportunity to deepen your understanding and draw closer to Allah.
11. Building Knowledge Brick by Brick
- Knowledge is best acquired in stages. Ibn Shihab Al-Zuhri said,
"ولا تأخذ العلم جملة ؛ فإن من رام أخذه جملة ذهب عنه جملة"
“Do not take knowledge all at once, for whoever takes it all at once will lose it all at once.” (Jami' Bayan al-'Ilm wa Fadlih by Ibn Abd al-Barr, volume 1, page 431)
- The Qur’an itself was revealed gradually:
"وَقُرْآنًا فَرَقْنَاهُ لِتَقْرَأَهُ عَلَى النَّاسِ عَلَى مُكْثٍ وَنَزَّلْنَاهُ تَنْزِيلًا"
“And [it is] a Qur'an which We have separated [by intervals] that you might recite it to the people over a prolonged period. And We have sent it down gradually.” (Surah Al-Isra: 106)
Starting with the basics lays a solid foundation, making it easier to tackle more complex subjects as you grow. By mastering the fundamentals and progressing step by step, you ensure that your knowledge is both enduring and deeply ingrained.
12. Cultivating Muroo’ah
A student of knowledge must protect the dignity of knowledge by upholding Muroo’ah, a concept that ensures one’s actions do not diminish their respect or the respectability of the knowledge they carry.
- Ibn Qayyim رحمه الله described it as,
"استعمال ما يجمله ويزينه، وترك وتجنب ما يدنسه ويشينه"
“Using that which beautifies a person and adorns him, and avoiding that which spoils and tarnishes him.” (Madarij Al-Salikeen, volume 2, page 352)
This principle encourages students to conduct themselves in ways that uphold their integrity and avoid behaviours that could lead others to look down on them or the knowledge they represent.
Examples of Behaviours Opposing Muroo’ah
Shaykh Ṣāliḥ al-‘Usaymī highlights actions that conflict with Muroo’ah, such as:
- Shaving the beard, which is not in line with the Islamic identity for men.
- Constantly looking around while walking, a habit that can appear undignified or lacking focus.
- Spreading one’s legs in front of others, which can be seen as disrespectful.
- Associating with major sinners or disreputable people, which can tarnish one’s reputation.
The essence of Muroo’ah is to embody conduct that elevates the individual and the knowledge they carry. By maintaining dignity, both in personal behaviour and public interactions, a student ensures that knowledge is represented in the best light. This not only preserves the student’s respect but also honours the sacred responsibility of carrying and spreading Islamic knowledge.
13. Honouring the Inheritors of Prophets
- The Prophet ﷺ emphasised the importance of honouring those who carry and teach knowledge, saying:
"ليس من أمتي من لم يجل كبيرنا ويرحم صغيرنا ويعرف لعالمنا حقه"
“They are not from my nation, those who do not honour our elders, have mercy on our young, and give our scholars their due right.” (Sunan Abi Dawood 8)
Scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, and it is through their sacrifices and dedication that we have access to knowledge today. Approach them with humility, gratitude, and the utmost reverence. Their role in preserving and spreading the deen is invaluable and deserves our respect, whether in person or online, and at every stage of our lives.
14. Keeping Knowledge Alive
Knowledge requires regular revision to stay fresh and alive.
- The Prophet ﷺ illustrated this need with a profound analogy:
"مثل صاحب القرآن كمثل صاحب الإبل المعقلة، إن عاهد عليها أمسكها، وإن أطلقها ذهبت"
“The example of the one who memorises the Qur’an is like that of a hobbled camel. If he remains vigilant, he will retain it, but if he neglects it, it will run away.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5031)
Knowledge, like a valuable possession, requires consistent care and attention. Regularly revisit your notes, books, and whatever you have learned to keep it fresh and firmly embedded in your memory, ensuring it remains a lasting part of you.
15. Refer Problematic Aspects to the People of Knowledge
In Islam, complex and problematic matters are to be referred to those qualified to handle them—the people of knowledge and leadership.
- Allah says in the Qur’an:
وَلَوْ رَدُّوهُ إِلَى ٱلرَّسُولِ وَإِلَىٰٓ أُو۟لِى ٱلْأَمْرِ مِنْهُمْ لَعَلِمَهُ ٱلَّذِينَ يَسْتَنۢبِطُونَهُۥ مِنْهُمْ ۗ وَلَوْلَا فَضْلُ ٱللَّهِ عَلَيْكُمْ وَرَحْمَتُهُۥ لَٱتَّبَعْتُمُ ٱلشَّيْطَـٰنَ إِلَّا قَلِيلًا ٨٣
"[...] But if they had referred it back to the Messenger or to those of authority among them, then the ones who [can] draw correct conclusions from it would have known about it. And if not for the favour of Allāh upon you and His mercy, you would have followed Satan, except for a few." (Surah An-Nisa: 83)
The leaders in this context are both the societal authorities and the scholars. Matters involving the lives, wealth, and well-being of Muslims are the responsibility of these trusted individuals. It is not for the general public to speculate or voice opinions on such matters without proper knowledge.
- Ibn 'Āṣim beautifully summarised this in Murtaqā al-Wuṣool:
"وواجب في مشكلات الفهم تحسيننا الظن بأهل العلم"
"Obligatory in complex matters of understanding is; our thinking good of the people of knowledge."
When dealing with difficult issues, it is essential to:
- Refer to Qualified Scholars: These individuals have the expertise and sound judgement to address complex questions, whether related to shariah, communal matters, or innovations.
- Avoid Public Speculation: General discussions among laypeople can lead to misunderstandings, the exaggeration of issues, or even mislabeling legitimate opinions as errors or innovations.
- Trust in the Scholars’ Expertise: It is crucial to maintain good assumptions about scholars and hold firmly to their guidance, as they are best equipped to differentiate truth from falsehood.
Even in the case of refuting errors—whether from scholars or those of innovation—it is a task for the firmly grounded scholars alone. When unqualified individuals attempt to address such matters, they risk misrepresenting issues, overreacting, or diminishing the severity of actual innovations.
The right course is to present these matters to the firmly grounded scholars and adhere to their insights. They are the ones entrusted by Allah to safeguard the Deen and guide the Ummah in times of confusion and complexity.
16. The Art of Asking Questions
- ‘Abdullah ibn Abbas رضي الله عنهما highlighted the importance of asking questions when he was asked how he had acquired the knowledge that he did:
"بِلِسَانٍ سَؤُولٍ، وَقَلبٍْ عَقُولٍ"
“With a tongue that constantly asks questions and a heart that understands.” (Virtues of the Companions by Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, volume 2, page 970, hadith number 1903)
Asking the right questions is key for a seeker of knowledge. However, it’s important to avoid questions that spark unnecessary disputes or distractions. Approach scholars with respect and sincerity, seeking answers that foster clarity, understanding, and benefit, rather than creating controversy or showing off one’s intellect.
17. Honouring the Circles of Knowledge
Respect for gatherings of knowledge is fundamental for every student. Scholars narrate how students would sit in gatherings of knowledge quietly, showing utmost respect and attentiveness.
It is narrated that one day Yahya ibn Yahya Al-Layth was sitting with Imam Malik in a gathering of students.
During the lesson, someone announced that a group of elephants was passing nearby. Excited by the rare sight, all of Malik’s students quickly left to see the elephants—except for Al-Layth.
Noticing this, Imam Malik turned to him and asked, “Why did you not go out to see the elephants, as such a sight does not exist in your land of Al-Andalus?”
- Yahya replied:
إنما جئت من بلدي لأنظر إليك وأتعلم من هديك وعلمك لا إلى أن أنظر إلى الفيل
"I have only come from my homeland to see you and learn from your guidance and knowledge, not to look at the elephant." (Tartīb al-Madārik 3/382)
This profound reply exemplifies the dedication and respect students of knowledge should have toward their studies. Honour these gatherings by minimising distractions and focusing wholeheartedly on what is being taught.
Remember, the knowledge being shared is so great that those who came before you would tremble at its recitation. Treat it with the reverence it deserves.
18. Defending Knowledge
Knowledge is both sacred and precious, deserving respect and protection when its excellence is challenged inappropriately. A true student of knowledge must honour its sanctity, recognizing that it is a gift not granted to everyone. Respect and etiquette are essential, both in seeking knowledge and in interacting with scholars.
If a student approaches a teacher with poor manners or speaks in an inappropriate manner, it is the teacher’s right—and often their duty—to withhold answers until proper respect is shown. This is not an act of arrogance but rather a defence of the knowledge itself. Scholars are revered not for who they are but for the knowledge they carry, which is a trust bestowed upon them by Allah.
Ways to Defend Knowledge:
- Forsaking Innovators: Knowledge should not be taken from those who introduce innovations (bid’ah) into the religion, as Abū Ya'lā al-Farrā’ mentioned. The consensus among scholars is to avoid such individuals unless absolutely necessary, such as narrating from them in the context of hadith, where exceptions may apply.
- Rebuking Misconduct: When a student demonstrates severe disputes, poor manners, or disrespectful behaviour, it becomes necessary to rebuke them. For example, 'Abdur-Rahmān ibn Mahdī would stop his lessons entirely if there was any disruption, emphasising the need for reverence in gatherings of knowledge.
- Avoiding Unproductive Questions: Scholars like Shaykh Ibn Bāz (رحمه الله) exemplified this principle by refusing to answer irrelevant or unbeneficial questions. Instead, they would redirect the session back to the core purpose of learning or provide answers that subtly corrected the questioner’s approach.
These actions are not about asserting authority but about protecting the sanctity of knowledge and ensuring its transmission with the respect it deserves. Knowledge thrives in an environment of etiquette, discipline, and genuine reverence for its value and purpose. Defending knowledge is a responsibility shared by both scholars and students, ensuring that it remains untainted and honoured for generations to come.
19. Passion for Knowledge
True seekers of knowledge are driven by a deep passion for learning.
- Ibn al-Qayyim رحمه الله said,
"ومن لم يغلب لذة إدراكه العلم وشهوته على لذة جسمه وشهوة نفسه لم ينل درجة العلم أبدًا"
“Whoever does not allow the pleasure of gaining knowledge and the desire for it to overcome the pleasure of the body and the desires of the soul will never reach the level of knowledge.” (Miftah Dar al-Sa'adah)
This passion drives us beyond our comfort zones, empowering us to prioritise our studies over fleeting worldly pleasures. If you truly seek knowledge, let your longing for understanding outweigh all other desires and commit to making learning a lifelong journey.
20. Making the Best Use of Time
Time is the most precious resource for a student of knowledge.
- Hasan al-Basri رحمه الله wisely reminded us,
"يا ابن آدم، إنما أنت أيام، كلما ذهب يوم ذهب بعضك"
“O son of Adam, you are nothing but days. Whenever a day passes, a part of you has gone.” (Hilyat al-Awliya' wa Tabaqat al-Asfiya' by Abu Nu'aym al-Isfahani, volume 2, page 148)
Treat every moment as a chance to grow in knowledge. Dedicate specific times to studying the Islamic sciences, learning Arabic, or reviewing your memorised portions of the Qur’an. Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, consistent effort will accumulate over time, leaving a profound and lasting impact on both your heart and mind.
Conclusion
Seeking knowledge in Islam is a lifelong endeavour, requiring dedication, patience, sincerity, and adherence to proper etiquette. The ultimate goal isn’t just intellectual achievement but to strengthen your connection with Allah, refine your character, and use your knowledge to benefit others.
This noble pursuit shapes not only your understanding but also your actions, guiding you toward a life of purpose and fulfilment.
- Allah ﷻ commands us:
"وَقُلْ رَبِّ زِدْنِي عِلْمًا"
“And say, My Lord, increase me in knowledge.” (Surah Taha: 114)
Through knowledge, we gain clarity about our purpose, fulfil our responsibilities, and positively influence those around us. Embrace this journey with an open heart, guided by sincerity, humility, and devotion at every step.
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