[Methodology of Islamic Thought] Scholars, Sincerity, and Society: The Importance of Pure Intentions in Gaining Knowledge

In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of knowledge is often driven by personal ambition, social recognition, or financial gain. However, in Islam, the intention behind acquiring knowledge holds immense significance. It is not merely about amassing information but about seeking knowledge to get closer to Allah SWT, to apply it in our lives, and to benefit the community.

The Importance of Pure Intentions

The Prophet Muhammad SAW emphasized the role of intention in every action. He warned against acquiring knowledge for the wrong reasons, stating:

"Whoever seeks knowledge to defeat the ignorant, to compete with the scholars, or to make people turn their faces towards him, will be in the Hellfire."

This powerful statement highlights that seeking knowledge for egoistic purposes; whether it be to win arguments, gain followers, or attain status which leads to spiritual ruin. Knowledge is a blessing and bounty from Allah, and misusing it can have severe consequences.

In another hadith, the Prophet SAW said:

"Whoever learns knowledge by which the face of Allah should be sought, yet does not learn it except to gain a portion of this dunya, will not even smell the scent of Paradise on the Day of Resurrection."

These warnings remind us to continuously purify our intentions. The goal should always be to seek knowledge for the sake of Allah, to understand His commands, and to live a life in accordance with His will.

What Should Be Our Intention?

Many people embark on the journey of acquiring knowledge with the aspiration of becoming a scholar. While there is nothing inherently wrong with this goal, the intention behind it is what truly matters. If the pursuit is driven by the desire for titles, recognition, or to add credentials to one’s resume, then it deviates from the true essence of learning.

A scholar once remarked on the meaning of an ijaza (a certification of scholarly authority):

"The meaning of an ijaza is that we are never going to see that person again."

This cynical observation reflects how some individuals collect ijazas from various scholars merely to boast about their qualifications, rather than to genuinely understand and apply the knowledge. The true intention should be to seek knowledge to know Allah better, to understand His words, and to implement His guidance in our lives. When knowledge is pursued with sincerity, it naturally leads to becoming a scholar because of the depth and appreciation one develops for the subject.

Scholars as Living Examples

One of the most valuable aspects of learning from a scholar is not just the information they impart but the example they set through their character and manners. Observing a scholar’s behavior offers lessons that books cannot teach. For instance, if someone in the masjid yells at the sheikh and the sheikh responds with calmness and patience, this serves as a powerful, practical demonstration of Islamic etiquette.

Unfortunately, in many communities, there is a shortage of such role models. With the rise of the internet, many young people turn to online sources for guidance, which can be dangerous. Extremist groups like ISIS often present themselves attractively online, making it easy for impressionable youth to fall into their traps. This lack of accessible, qualified scholars leaves a void that is often filled by misguided individuals.

The Crisis of Qualified Scholars

It is not uncommon to attend Jumu'ah prayers in large Muslim communities and struggle to find a qualified individual to deliver the khutbah. While there may be numerous engineers, doctors, and lawyers, finding someone with the knowledge, understanding, and maturity to lead the community spiritually is rare.

The field of Islamic finance, for example, is a growing industry, but the number of scholars with the expertise to navigate its complexities is astonishingly small. Globally, there are only about 20 recognized scholars in this field. In the U.S., communities of thousands might only have one or two sheikhs, which is insufficient to meet the community’s needs. This shortage not only affects religious guidance but also contributes to the spread of misinformation and extremism.

The Importance of Applying Knowledge

Acquiring knowledge is only half the journey; the other half is applying it. The early scholars emphasized that true knowledge is demonstrated through action. The Prophet SAW said:

"Knowledge will be a proof for you or against you."

It becomes a proof for you when you learn and apply it in your life. Conversely, it becomes a proof against you when you acquire knowledge but fail to implement it. On the Day of Judgment, individuals will be questioned about their knowledge and how they applied it.

A profound example of this is Abdullah ibn Umar RA, who took eight years to memorize Surah Al-Baqarah because he diligently applied each verse before moving on. This approach contrasts with those who may memorize the entire Qur'an but do not live by its teachings, rendering their knowledge ineffective and even detrimental.

Parental Priorities and the Role of Families

Another significant issue is the priorities set by parents regarding their children’s education. Many parents are primarily concerned with their child’s worldly success, often at the expense of religious knowledge. While sending children to Islamic schools is common, it is frequently done to shield them from negative influences like drugs and alcohol, rather than to instill a deep understanding of the deen. Complaints that Islamic schools are "too Islamic" reveal where many parents’ true concerns lie.

To address the shortage of scholars, it is essential for families to encourage their children to pursue Islamic knowledge. This does not mean neglecting secular education, but rather balancing it with religious studies. Sheikh Ja’afar Idris, a prominent scholar, began his journey while studying philosophy by reading Islamic texts alongside his academic books. His father’s encouragement played a crucial role in his development as a scholar.

The Communal Obligation: Fard Kifayah

It is a fard kifayah (communal obligation) to ensure that there are enough knowledgeable people in the community. If the community fails to produce sufficient scholars, the entire community bears the responsibility. This can be achieved by fostering an environment that values and supports Islamic scholarship.

In some parts of the world, like Mauritania, students endure harsh conditions to memorize thousands of hadiths and deepen their understanding of Islam. These efforts highlight the dedication required to preserve and propagate Islamic knowledge. In contrast, many Muslim-majority countries with access to modern resources still face a shortage of scholars due to a lack of emphasis on religious education. 

The intention behind seeking knowledge and its application is fundamental in Islam. It is not about titles, recognition, or worldly success but about getting closer to Allah, living by His guidance, and benefiting the community. The current shortage of qualified scholars underscores the need for sincere efforts to revive the pursuit of knowledge for the right reasons. By purifying our intentions, applying what we learn, and encouraging the next generation to value religious education, we can fulfill our communal obligation and ensure the preservation of true Islamic knowledge.

Disclaimer: This notes is as per discussion shared by Sheikh Jamal Zarabozo for AQD701 Methodology of Islamic Thoughts Module with KIU