Is a student of knowledge financially independent of his father, and does he strive to obtain [what he needs] himself to buy books, even though he has no job?

The best and most complete path for a student of knowledge is to be self-sufficient through the earnings of his own hand, rather than depending on his father or others. Striving to acquire lawful provision is a religious obligation, and the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, encouraged earning a livelihood, saying: "No one has ever eaten food better than that which he eats from the work of his hand. Indeed, the Prophet of Allah, David, peace be upon him, used to eat from the work of his hand." And the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said regarding the purest earnings: "A man's work with his hand, and every righteous transaction."

However, if the father is content to spend on his son so that he may dedicate himself to seeking knowledge, then he will be rewarded, and perhaps Allah will provide for him because of his support, as narrated in the Hadith: "There were two brothers during the time of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him. One of them used to come to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, while the other practiced a profession. The one who practiced a profession complained about his brother to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, who said: 'Perhaps you are provided for because of him.'" Therefore, there is no harm for the son in accepting his father's expenditure.