15. Humility in Learning

followers with mental and spiritual training by applying these principles to natural events. Our whole world is a vast school. One who is a true seeker of knowledge will continue to increase his knowledge every moment. His scholarly journey will never come to an end. 17. Knowledge and Seriousness Abdullah ibn Abbas said, “He who fears God is a scholar.” (Sunan al-Darimi, No. 345) This saying of the senior companion of the Prophet shows that seriousness and caution are important aspects of acquiring knowledge. Knowledge is not just the name of possessing a piece of information. When a person acquires deep knowledge, its natural consequence is that he becomes cautious about God. This precaution creates seriousness in a person. Where there is knowledge without seriousness, it should be understood that there is no knowledge in the true sense. True knowledge makes a man a new man. A person with true knowledge is aware of the facts of nature, and a person who is aware of this cannot afford to live in contradictions. He cannot speak carelessly. He cannot treat people lightly. True knowledge makes a man serious and responsible in every sense. 18. Increase in Knowledge The Quran describes prayer in these words: “My Lord, increase my knowledge.” (The Quran, 20:114) This Quranic prayer shows the importance of acquiring knowledge in Islam. According to the teachings of Islam, every man and woman should constantly strive to increase their knowledge.