Reading the Qur’an and seeking knowledge: Which should I prioritize, and which is better?

Reciting the Quran is an act of worship with immense reward, as each letter counts for ten good deeds. However, engaging in and studying Islamic knowledge is given precedence over it and other supererogatory acts of worship. This is indicated by several points: that the benefit of knowledge extends to its possessor and to Muslims in general; that knowledge corrects other acts of worship, which are in need of it; that scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets; that the worshiper is a follower of the scholar, emulating and imitating him; and that the benefit and impact of knowledge remain even after its possessor. Furthermore, seeking knowledge is a communal obligation (fard kifaya), and a Muslim can combine both forms of worship by dedicating a specific time to seeking knowledge and another to reciting the Quran.