Ibn
Taymiyyah رحمه
الله
There are many from the students of
knowledge whose intention in seeking knowledge is nothing except for the
attainment of leadership or wealth, and for every person is that which he
intended. As for the people of knowledge and religion, they are the (true)
people of knowledge. This is what’s intended with them due to its benefit
for them and their need for it in this life as well
as in the hereafter. Just as Mu’aadh ibn Jabal (رضي اللّه عنـه) stated regarding the description of
knowledge:
Indeed the seeking of it for the sake of Allaah
is Ibaadah (worship). Reviewing it is a means of glorifying (Allaah).
The research of it is striving (for the sake of Allaah.) Teaching it to
the one who does not know it is sadaqah (charity). By way of it Allaah
it is known and they worship Him. Also (by way of it) Allaah is magnified
and singled out (for all that which is specifically for Him). Based upon
this we find the people who benefit from it and their souls are purified by way
of it. They intend with it the following of the truth and not the following of desires.
The traverse on it: the path of justice and fairness. They love it and find
delight with it. They love an abundance of it and the abundance of its people.
