What is the ruling on prioritizing seeking knowledge over any other endeavor?

Seeking sacred knowledge is divided into two categories: The first is an individual obligation (fardh 'ayn), which is what a Muslim needs concerning the fundamentals of faith, acts of worship, and financial transactions. This must be prioritized above all else. The second is a communal obligation (fardh kifayah), which is anything beyond that. The ruling on prioritizing it over other matters varies according to time, place, and individual.