Knowledge (‘Ilm)
Definition of ‘Ilm
‘Ilm (علم) is an Arabic term that translates to “knowledge” or “learning.” In an Islamic context, ‘Ilm signifies both religious knowledge, derived from the Quran and Sunnah, and secular knowledge that can benefit humanity. It embodies the pursuit of understanding, wisdom, and the devotion to learning as a means of spiritual growth and fulfillment of one’s duties to society.
Etymology
The word ‘Ilm (علم) originates from the Arabic root ‘A-L-M, which means “to know,” “to be aware,” or “to gain knowledge.” The concept is linguistically linked to terms signifying awareness and cultivation of understanding.
Turkish Translation: Bilgi
Significance in Islam
Islam places a high value on knowledge, considering it an essential aspect of a person’s faith and practice. The pursuit of ‘Ilm is highly encouraged, emphasizing that knowledge is a gift from Allah and a means to differentiate right from wrong. Several key points highlight its significance:
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Quranic Foundation: The Quran itself emphasizes the importance of knowledge, with numerous verses urging the faithful to seek knowledge and reflect deeply on the signs of Allah in the universe (Quran 20:114).
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Prophetic Tradition: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stressed the significance of pursuing knowledge. A famous Hadith states, “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.”
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Intellectual Tradition: Islamic civilization historically thrived on the pursuit of knowledge, resulting in significant contributions to various fields such as science, medicine, philosophy, and literature.
Knowledge Types in Islam
In Islam, knowledge is often categorized into two primary types:
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Revealed Knowledge (‘Ilm al-Deen): Knowledge acquired from religious sources such as the Quran, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh). It includes understanding the fundamentals of faith, religious rituals, and moral ethics.
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Worldly Knowledge (‘Ilm al-Dunya): Knowledge related to the physical world, encompassing the sciences, arts, and humanities. This type of knowledge is also highly valued as it contributes to the well-being of humanity and the environment.
The Role of ‘Ilm in Daily Life
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Personal Development: Muslims are encouraged to continuously seek knowledge, as it is a source of personal enrichment and a means to fulfill one’s duties toward God and humanity.
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Social and Ethical Responsibility: Knowledge equips individuals to make informed decisions, uphold justice, and contribute positively to society.
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Interfaith Engagement: ‘Ilm fosters greater understanding and respect between diverse communities, facilitating dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Recommended Books for Further Studies
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The Book of Knowledge by Imam al-Ghazali - A foundational work exploring the importance of knowledge in Islamic thought.
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Islamic Philosophy, Science, Culture, and Religion: Studies in Honor of Dimitri Gutas - This collection provides insights into the interplay between knowledge and different aspects of Islamic civilization.
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Knowledge and the Sacred by Seyyed Hossein Nasr - A comprehensive work that delves into the metaphysical significance of knowledge in Islam.
Takeaways
- ‘Ilm is a central concept in Islam, encompassing both religious and secular fields.
- The pursuit of knowledge is seen as a form of worship and a moral obligation.
- Knowledge contributes to personal, social, and ethical development in Muslim communities.
- Continuous learning fosters interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding.
Conclusion
In Islam, knowledge (‘Ilm) is more than just an accumulation of information; it is a holistic pursuit that shapes a person’s faith, character, and contribution to society. Rooted in the Quranic directive to seek understanding, the tradition of valuing ‘Ilm continues to inspire Muslims to engage deeply with both their religious heritage and the broader world.
