Should one stay away from studying Islamic religious knowledge for fear of tribulation and straying, and for this reason, reduce one's religious studies?
Seeking sacred knowledge is among the most excellent acts of devotion, and some scholars prioritize it over supererogatory prayers and night vigils. It is the best of deeds for one whose intention is pure. Knowledge is divided into obligatory for every individual (fard ayn), communal obligation (fard kifayah), and supererogatory (nafl). Supererogatory knowledge is better than night vigil. Allah did not command His Prophet to seek increase in anything but knowledge. It is a cause for avoiding misguidance and discord, for the deeply rooted scholars protect the Ummah from tribulations. The deviation that may afflict some who associate themselves with knowledge stems from afflictions such as lack of sincerity, love of prominence, or preoccupation with worldly matters. Scholars are of three types: a scholar of the nation (millah), a scholar of the state (dawlah), and a scholar of the community (ummah). Seeking knowledge is a necessity in this era due to the proliferation of innovations, ignorance, and contention. Increasing one's knowledge is good and a source of elevation, and a cause for avoiding misguidance and discord, provided there is humility, sincerity, and preference for the command of Allah and His Messenger.
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Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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