Back to search

What is the obligatory intention when teaching in school? Is it permissible for the intention to include repelling accusations of negligence and gaining the approval of teachers?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

We have previously explained that learning beneficial sciences is permissible, and some of them are a collective obligation (fard kifaya), and that sincerity in seeking knowledge is one of the greatest acts of worship, for which the learner is rewarded. Regarding the question about intention in studying: if the knowledge is religious (shar'i), then sincerity to Allah Almighty is obligatory in it. As for worldly sciences, there is no objection to seeking them initially for the purpose of obtaining a job or status. If one is sincere to Allah Almighty, they will be rewarded according to their sincerity. It is preferable to refine intentions with what will earn reward in the Sharia, such as the intention of benefiting Muslims or excelling to present the Muslim woman in a good light.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

Read the full answer on Ftawy