Knowledge
The Qur’an
re-currently, urges the faithful to acquire knowledge that would bring them closer to God and to His creation Say [unto them, O Muhammad]: Are those who know not? But only men of understanding will pay heed (39: 9)
And He has subjected to you, as from Him, all that is in the heavens and on earth: behold, in that are signs indeed for those who reflect (45: 13)
Islam has, from its inception, placed a high premium on education and has enjoyed a long and rich intellectual tradition. Knowledge (‘ilm) occupies a significant position within Islam, as evidenced by the more than 800 references to it in Islam’s most revered book, the Qur’an The basic aim of Islamic education is to enable a Muslim to have basic information such as how to pray, fast, etc and what is the basic information in order to live an honourable life. Islam wants a person to be mentally, physically, and socially sound in order to live a healthy life. Islam wants spiritually a balanced Muslim who can maintain a balance between religious and social activities.
Islam requires a Muslim to have a great love for Islam and be ready for all kinds of sacrifices for Islam. One of the aims of Islamic education is to develop in a person the spirit of Muslim brotherhood and tolerance so that he/she could live a harmonious life in society.
Spirituality
We at the IANWC believe Education in Islam is twofold: acquiring intellectual knowledge (through the application of reason and logic) and developing spiritual knowledge (derived from divine revelation and spiritual experience). According to the worldview of Islam, provision in education must be made equally for both. Acquiring knowledge in Islam is not intended as an end but as a means to stimulate a more elevated moral and spiritual consciousness, leading to faith and righteous action.
