The Virtues of Learning [Knowledge]

as salamu alaykum,

Last post before I go back to Madresah (I’ll be back in a few weeks for a wedding in April…time sure does fly). My sister will probably post while I’m away, so don’t be confused when she posts (as believeress) on the blog. I’ve been meaning to post this poem for a long time now, alhamdulillah I finally got down to it.

Imam Burhan al-Din recited:

“Behold! Learning occupies the highest rank, while inferior to it is the grandeur of the greatest in a princely procession.

For the man of learning, his splendor continues to multiply, while the ignorant man just merely below the ground after his death.

No one who ascends the ladder of empire and the generalship can hope for the heights [of the learned].

I shall dictate to you some of the things of which [knowledge] consists. So listen! It is not possible for me to relate all the virtues of learning.

[Knowledge] is the most perfect light which guides people away from blindness, while the ignorant man passes his life in dark shades.

[Knowledge] is the summit of heights which protects one who seeks refuge in it; and by its auspices does one go along with security.

Through [knowledge], one is taken into [divine] confidence, while [ordinary] men live in their heedless.

Through [knowledge], one has hope [for eternal life] even while the soul remains locked within the breast [while still alive].

Through [knowledge], man intercedes for the one who, out of rebellion [against God], descends to the very bottom of Hell, the most terrible of punishments.

So he who aspires to learn, aspires to all necessary things. And he who possesses it, possesses all those things that are worthy of quest.

This is the honor of honors, O man of intelligence! So when you have won it, make light of the [worldly] honors.

For if the world seems to escape you, as well as its pleasures, then blink your eyes at them, for knowledge is the best of gifts.”

Taken from, Ta’lim al-Muta’allim Tariq al-Ta’allum by Imam al-Zarnuji
Instruction of the Student --The Method of Learning
Original Translation by G.E. Von Grunebaum and Theodora M. Abel