Akhlaq batch#5-(aug-2016-intake) - lesson#4a -preparation-for-learning-(7-september-2016)

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,
MOST COMPASSIONATE,MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.MOST MERCIFUL.
INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OFINTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF
‘‘ILM AL-AKHLAQILM AL-AKHLAQ
“Verily! You (Muhammad) are upon the
most exalted (Khuluq) disposition.”
Using text & curriculum he has developed especially forUsing text & curriculum he has developed especially for
Muslim converts and young Adult English-speaking Muslims.Muslim converts and young Adult English-speaking Muslims.
““To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”To seek knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim (male & female)”
““INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDYINTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY
OF ‘OF ‘ILM AL-AKHLAQILM AL-AKHLAQ ””
Intermediate Level Islamic course in English for AdultsIntermediate Level Islamic course in English for Adults
conducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismailconducted by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail
All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2016))
LESSON # 4 a –LESSON # 4 a –
PREPARATION FOR LEARNINGPREPARATION FOR LEARNING
UPDATED – 7UPDATED – 7 September 2016September 2016

“[So mention] when your Lord said to the angels,
"Indeed, I am going to create a human being from
clay. So when I have proportioned him and breathed
into him of My [created] soul (RUH), then fall down
to him in prostration." So the angels prostrated - all
of them entirely. Except Iblees; he was arrogant and
became among the disbelievers.”
(Qur’an: Sad: 38: 71-74)

And they ask you, [O Muhammad], about the soul (RUH).
Say, "The soul (RUH) is of the affair of my Lord. And mankind
have not been given of knowledge except a little.“
(Qur’an: Isra’: 17: 85)

“Allah takes the souls (ANFUS) at the time of their
death, and those that do not die [He takes] during their
sleep. Then He keeps those for which He has decreed
death and releases the others for a specified term.
Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.”
(Qur’an: Sad: 39: 42)
*ANFUS (plural) – NAFS (singular)

 It is called “It is called “RuhRuh” – ‘spirit’, when we refer to its essence, which we do” – ‘spirit’, when we refer to its essence, which we do
not know except very little.not know except very little.
 When it is in cognitive mode of its own existence, awareness of its identity,When it is in cognitive mode of its own existence, awareness of its identity,
it is called “it is called “NafsNafs” – ‘self’. And it may go through many ‘states’ (” – ‘self’. And it may go through many ‘states’ (AHWALAHWAL))
 The wordThe word ““QolbQolb” – “” – “Fu-adFu-ad” ‘heart’, also refers to our Soul,” ‘heart’, also refers to our Soul,
when it is in the mode of reflection, or contemplation in understandingwhen it is in the mode of reflection, or contemplation in understanding
meanings. Maintining its well-being and purity must be of the ultimate concern.meanings. Maintining its well-being and purity must be of the ultimate concern.
 When Allah s.w.t. grantsWhen Allah s.w.t. grants TaufiqTaufiq whereupon its understanding of ‘Reality’whereupon its understanding of ‘Reality’
penetrates deeply, it is referred to as “penetrates deeply, it is referred to as “LubbLubb” - ‘innermost’; ‘core’” - ‘innermost’; ‘core’
 If it is guided by Allah to go deeper still, it is referred to as “If it is guided by Allah to go deeper still, it is referred to as “SirrSirr” –” –
‘secret’‘secret’
 But all these terms refer to the same thing i.e. Our Spiritual Self.But all these terms refer to the same thing i.e. Our Spiritual Self.
WaAllaahu a’lamWaAllaahu a’lam
EPISTEMOLOGY

 Information gathered are like pieces of jig-saw puzzle.
 It may seem quite easy to get them, especially when they seemed
to be scattered about almost everywhere.
 Some people are keen to only gather them, to pick them up, to
steal these pieces, and are obsessed with merely having as much of
them as possible – not realizing its true meaning, its true significance,
its true worth to benefit from it, its place and purpose to us.

 Thus, some people may feel that they have ‘knowledge’, whereas
what they possess may just be merely ‘information’.
 Actually by “knowledge”, we are referring to the relevant
“meaning” from that subject that we “seek to acquire, arriving in our
soul ...” – not merely the subject.
 The “Soul” (or sometimes referred to as the ‘heart’, ‘mind’ or
‘intellect’) is the spiritual Self (of who we are our Self ‘Nafs’ ) - our
cognitive essence, capable of knowing and of learning.

 Thus education is said to be “organic” liken to a living organism –
which pertains, primarily, to the growth (of meaning, realization and
actualization) of our soul - Self.
 Education, from the Islamic perspective, is not a mechanical
construct, but it entails nurturing of a Muslim with ‘Life’ – and the
Islamic educators to be likened as the ‘gardeners ’ not ‘engineers’.
 Actually, (in Islamic education), when acquiring any pieces of it
(information), a student should also be learning what its meaning and
significance is, and how it is to be applied (fixed or connected) unto what
he/she already possess thus far – increasing spiritual growth.

 This can only be possible when such pieces are given to them by one
who has true ownership of these, and who consents to give these to
them and helps them with how they should understand these, and to
form (or attach) them unto their overall worldview.
 Thus, students must be learning from the right person, i.e. those who
has ‘seen’ the full (at least)- the completed picture.; or preferably those
who have traversed the path themselves.
 Only such are the ones who can rightfully teach them how they are to
make each pieces to become meaningful to what they already possess.

“ Educators are like gardeners, the best of them are the local gardeners
with the most experience, who have been living with and nurturing the
plants and being the caretaker of its ornaments. Although they are often
unassuming by avoiding the gaze of people admiring the garden, yet
ignoring them is indeed ignorant heedlessness, compounded with
ingratitude, while preferring others less able over them is injustice ”
'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you
[in favour];
but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe”
(Qur’an: Surah Ibrahim: 14: 7)
MOST MERCIFULMOST MERCIFUL
AN-NASEEHAH
Sincere Advice

“ Guru-pendidik adalah ibarat para tukang kebun. Yang terbaik dari kalangan
mereka adalah tukang kebun tempatan yang lebih berpengalaman, yakni mereka
yang hidup bersama tanam-tanaman yang mereka pupuk dan rawat sejak dari
semaian. Mereka juga adalah pelindung serta pencetus keindahan persekitaran
kebun. Walaupun keberadaan tukang kebun tidaklah menonjol (terlihat) malah
dengan sikap tawadhu, mereka menghindar dari dipandang orang yang lewat
mengkagumi keindahan kebun, tetapi sikap kita tidak mempedulikan mereka ini
adalah satu kejahilan, malah satu kecuaian besar yang hampir mengkufuri nikmat.
Apalagi sekiranya ada orang yang mengutamakan pendidik-pendidik lain yang kurang
berkebolehan dan pengalaman dari mereka, ini adalah satu kezaliman ”
Dan (ingatlah juga), tatkala Tuhanmu memaklumkan;
"Sesungguhnya jika kamu bersyukur, pasti Kami akan menambah
(nikmat) kepadamu, dan jika kamu mengingkari (nikmat-Ku), maka
sesungguhnya azab-Ku sangat pedih".”
(Qur’an: Surah Ibrahim: 14: 7)
Dengan menyebut
nama Allah Yang Maha
Pemurah lagi Maha
Penyayang.
AN-NASEEHAH
Sincere Advice

 And the manner or approach towards making it meaningful
(enlightening), may be seen from various perspectives (angles)
amongst fellow students in the same class, because each student,
although may have a limited vision of what the teacher was teaching,
may be granted new meanings - ‘arriving in his soul’. Thus in a
traditional teaching sessions, ‘knowledge’ expands and increases.
 Thus being physically present in class with a teacher, learning face-
to-face, sharing what they have learnt with the teacher and fellow
students, seeking constant guidance etc. has always been a highly
valued traditional method (which, unfortunately, we may have lost or
slowly losing through neglect).

“TRADITIONAL LEARNING FROM ISLAMIC TEACHERS AND SCHOLARS”

O YOUNG MAN: .......
“And it behoves you not to be deceived by the escapades
and antics of the charlatan sufis. The true spiritual journey
of the Sufi Path is not the path of these pretenders. It is
the path of self-remonstrance and the removal of carnal
desires (and their inner promptings) with the Sword
of Vigilance.“
“May Allah bless his soul,
elevate his rank and make
us to benefit from his
knowledge, wisdom and
secrets.”

O YOUNG MAN: .......O YOUNG MAN: .......
““There are four matters that the traveller (salik) must observeThere are four matters that the traveller (salik) must observe
during the spiritual journey:during the spiritual journey:
ONEONE, sound belief that is free from innovation., sound belief that is free from innovation.
secrets.”

TWOTWO, sincere and genuine repentance with the resolve not to, sincere and genuine repentance with the resolve not to
return to a life of carnal pleasure.return to a life of carnal pleasure.
secrets.”

THREETHREE, to try to make peace with your adversaries so that no, to try to make peace with your adversaries so that no
claims can be laid against you.claims can be laid against you.
secrets.”

FOURFOUR, to acquire sufficient knowledge of the Sacred Law to, to acquire sufficient knowledge of the Sacred Law to
enable you to perform the orders of Allah, the Most High.enable you to perform the orders of Allah, the Most High.
Then there is theThen there is the knowledge of the Hereafterknowledge of the Hereafter that is necessarythat is necessary
for success.for success.
secrets.”

““what is necessary for those who choose to travel upon the
path of Truth...
Know that it is essential for you to attach yourself to a Spiritual
Guide and Teacher who, through his spiritual instructions, will
purify yourself from evil tendencies and replace them with
nobility of character.
secrets.”

“ the signs by which you may recognise the true guide ..
 he who renounces love of the world and the desire for rank;
secrets.”

 he who follows an enlightened guide whose spiritual chain
extends in unbroken sequence to Muhammad, the Lord of the
Messengers
secrets.”

 and he who excels in refining himself by observing modesty
in eating, speaking and sleeping, and by much praying,
almsgiving and fasting;
secrets.”

 he who, in imitation of an enlightened guide, makes virtue
his way of life-amongst which are counted patience, prayer,
thanksgiving, dependence on Allah, certainty of knowledge,
generosity, contentedness, inner peace, clemency, humility,
knowledge, truthfulness, modesty, reliability, sobriety,
tranquillity, and perseverance.
secrets.”

““An immoral man of learning is a great evil,An immoral man of learning is a great evil,
yet a greater evil is an ignoramus leading a ‘godly’ life.yet a greater evil is an ignoramus leading a ‘godly’ life.
Both are a great trial (FITNAH) everywhere,Both are a great trial (FITNAH) everywhere,
to whomever depends to them both (for guidance),to whomever depends to them both (for guidance),
in holding on to his religion”in holding on to his religion”
REFLECTIONREFLECTION::
We would indeed be afflicted with thisWe would indeed be afflicted with this FitnahFitnah (trial). Only with appropriate(trial). Only with appropriate
knowledge andknowledge and irshaadahirshaadah, and more importantly, and more importantly Taufiq wal-Hidaa-yaTaufiq wal-Hidaa-ya fromfrom
Allah SWT. would we be saved from its evil.Allah SWT. would we be saved from its evil.

““It is He (Allah) Who has sent amongst the Unlettered aIt is He (Allah) Who has sent amongst the Unlettered a
messenger (Muhammad) from among themselves, tomessenger (Muhammad) from among themselves, to
rehearse to them His Signs, to sanctify them, and torehearse to them His Signs, to sanctify them, and to
instruct them in Scripture and Wisdom― although theyinstruct them in Scripture and Wisdom― although they
had been, before, in manifest error―had been, before, in manifest error― .“.“
((Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 2Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 2))

““As well as (to confer all these benefits upon) others of them, whoAs well as (to confer all these benefits upon) others of them, who
have not already joined them: and He is Exalted in Might, Wise.”have not already joined them: and He is Exalted in Might, Wise.”

“Such is the Bounty of Allah, which He bestows on whom He will:
and Allah is the Lord of the highest bounty.”
(Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 4)

““Who is better in speech than one who calls (men) to Allah, worksWho is better in speech than one who calls (men) to Allah, works
righteousness, and says "I am of those who bow in Islam"righteousness, and says "I am of those who bow in Islam"

““Nor should the Believers all go forth together: if a contingentNor should the Believers all go forth together: if a contingent
from every expedition remained behind, they could devotefrom every expedition remained behind, they could devote
themselves to studies in religion (themselves to studies in religion (LIYA-TAFAQQAHU -FID-DEENLIYA-TAFAQQAHU -FID-DEEN))
and admonish the people when they return to them― that thusand admonish the people when they return to them― that thus
they (may learn) to guard themselves (against evil).”they (may learn) to guard themselves (against evil).”
((Qur’an: Taubah: 9:122Qur’an: Taubah: 9:122))

Say: "Are those equal, those who know and those who doSay: "Are those equal, those who know and those who do
not know? It is those who are endued with understandingnot know? It is those who are endued with understanding
that receive admonition.“that receive admonition.“
((Qur’an: Zumar: 39: 9Qur’an: Zumar: 39: 9))

““So ask the people of the ‘Remembrance’ (i.e. thoseSo ask the people of the ‘Remembrance’ (i.e. those
who know) in matters which you do not know.who know) in matters which you do not know.““
((Qur’an: Anbiya’: 21: 7Qur’an: Anbiya’: 21: 7))

““Verily those who truly fear Allah from among His Servants,Verily those who truly fear Allah from among His Servants,
those who have knowledge (those who have knowledge (AL-’ULAMAAL-’ULAMA): for Allah is Exalted): for Allah is Exalted
in Might, Oft-Forgiving.in Might, Oft-Forgiving.““
((Qur’an: Fatir: 35: 28Qur’an: Fatir: 35: 28))

““ Allah will raise up, to (suitable) ranks (and degrees), those of youAllah will raise up, to (suitable) ranks (and degrees), those of you
who believe and who have been granted Knowledge (who believe and who have been granted Knowledge (UU-UU-
TUL-’ILMATUL-’ILMA): and Allah is well-acquainted with all ye do.”): and Allah is well-acquainted with all ye do.”
((Qur’an: Mujadilah: 58: 11Qur’an: Mujadilah: 58: 11))

He (Allah) grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and he toHe (Allah) grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and he to
whom wisdom is granted receives indeed a benefitwhom wisdom is granted receives indeed a benefit
overflowing; but none will grasp the message but men ofoverflowing; but none will grasp the message but men of
understandingunderstanding.“.“
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 269Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 269))

“Whomsoever that Allah wishes for him goodness, He will
make him a FAQIH (learned) in matters of the
religion(Deen); and for everything there is a pillar, and the
pillar of this religion is AL-FIQH – (the profound
understanding of the Deen); a learned scholar (of the Deen)
is more difficult upon satan than a thousand worshippers.”
((Reported by Bukhary and MuslimReported by Bukhary and Muslim))

““Whosoever sets out upon the path in which to seek knowledgeWhosoever sets out upon the path in which to seek knowledge
((‘ILMA‘ILMA), Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise.”), Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise.”
((Reported by Abu Daud & TirmidziReported by Abu Daud & Tirmidzi))

““The best ones amongst you is the person who makes yourThe best ones amongst you is the person who makes your
remember Allah when you look upon him; and whenever heremember Allah when you look upon him; and whenever he
speaks it increases you your knowledge (of the Deen), and withspeaks it increases you your knowledge (of the Deen), and with
his deeds it inspires (motivates) you to strive for yourhis deeds it inspires (motivates) you to strive for your
Hereafter.”Hereafter.”
((Hadith reported by Hakim from Ibnu ‘Umar r.aHadith reported by Hakim from Ibnu ‘Umar r.a.).)

““Indeed, Allah bestowed a favour upon the believers when he raised up inIndeed, Allah bestowed a favour upon the believers when he raised up in
their midst a Messenger from among themselves, to convey His messagestheir midst a Messenger from among themselves, to convey His messages
unto them, and to cause them to grow in purity, and to impart unto themunto them, and to cause them to grow in purity, and to impart unto them
the divine writ as well as wisdom - whereas before that they were indeed,the divine writ as well as wisdom - whereas before that they were indeed,
most obviously, lost in error.”most obviously, lost in error.”
((Qur’an: Aali ‘Imran: 3: 163Qur’an: Aali ‘Imran: 3: 163))

““Knowledge is not from the listening of much narrationsKnowledge is not from the listening of much narrations
(or merely reading books), verily knowledge is light(or merely reading books), verily knowledge is light
(which Allah s.w.t. casts) into the heart.”(which Allah s.w.t. casts) into the heart.”
((Saying ofSaying of ** Ibnu Mas’ud r.aIbnu Mas’ud r.a.).)
* The famous companion (SAHABI) of the Prophet s.a.a.w.The famous companion (SAHABI) of the Prophet s.a.a.w.

““The most meritorious of knowledge is knowledge ofThe most meritorious of knowledge is knowledge of
the ‘the ‘HaalHaal’ (spiritual state); and the most meritorious of’ (spiritual state); and the most meritorious of
actions (deeds) is to maintain one’s standing (goodlyactions (deeds) is to maintain one’s standing (goodly
spiritual state attained).”spiritual state attained).”
* Muhammad ibn al-Hassan Abu ’Abdallah al-Shaibany r.h.m. said:
•The famous student of Imam Abu Hanifah r.h.mThe famous student of Imam Abu Hanifah r.h.m.
Amongst the teachers of Imam Ash-Shafi’ie r.h.m

• REFLECTION:REFLECTION:
Our concern should be towards drawing close to AllahOur concern should be towards drawing close to Allah
spiritually described as states (spiritually described as states (HaalHaal). In the incremental). In the incremental
states which we gained, we must strive to maintain withstates which we gained, we must strive to maintain with
‘amal‘amal (practice) as we can regress. When ‘(practice) as we can regress. When ‘istiqomahistiqomah’ in’ in
one’s Haal is achieved, it is called ‘one’s Haal is achieved, it is called ‘MaqomMaqom’’

““Learn (seek knowledge)! For the learning is anLearn (seek knowledge)! For the learning is an
adornment for the one who (strive and) possesses it; aadornment for the one who (strive and) possesses it; a
virtue and a prelude to every praiseworthy action.”virtue and a prelude to every praiseworthy action.”

Certainly, this is from the Islamic perspective ofCertainly, this is from the Islamic perspective of
knowledge linked toknowledge linked to ‘ibaadah‘ibaadah – not the secularist-culture– not the secularist-culture
of learning which is attached to value-system quiteof learning which is attached to value-system quite
opposed to Islamic ideals.opposed to Islamic ideals.

““Give yourself up to the study of jurisprudence (FIQH), for
the knowledge of jurisprudence is the best guide to piety and
the fear of God and it is the straightest path to the ultimate
goal.”.”
““FiqhFiqh” – literally means “profound understanding (of the” – literally means “profound understanding (of the
Deen)” – ref: al-Qur’an Surah Taubah : 9: 122, which laterDeen)” – ref: al-Qur’an Surah Taubah : 9: 122, which later
was used to refer to the studies of Islamic jurisprudence.was used to refer to the studies of Islamic jurisprudence.

“It is the milestone leading to the ways of proper guidance;
it is the fortress that saves [one] from all hardships. “
Again, one has to understand Islam’s value system which doAgain, one has to understand Islam’s value system which do
not separate the eternal goodness and hardship in Hereafternot separate the eternal goodness and hardship in Hereafter
with present life which is temporary and fleeting. Thus,with present life which is temporary and fleeting. Thus,
those with secular worldview, may not be able to appreciatethose with secular worldview, may not be able to appreciate
profoundly this message.profoundly this message.

“Indeed, one godly person versed in jurisprudence is more
powerful against Satan than a thousand [ordinary] worshippers.”
Only by knowing the boundaries between obedience andOnly by knowing the boundaries between obedience and
disobedience, instilled withdisobedience, instilled with TaqwaTaqwa (fear of transgression)(fear of transgression)
that can effectively equip a Muslim against being temptedthat can effectively equip a Muslim against being tempted
or deceived by Satan. Thus, the emphasis upon thisor deceived by Satan. Thus, the emphasis upon this
knowledge.knowledge.

““The knowledge is what benefits,The knowledge is what benefits,
not what is memorized”not what is memorized”
((Imam Muhammad Idris ash-Shafi’e rhm. aImam Muhammad Idris ash-Shafi’e rhm. a.).)

““O YOU who have attained to faith! Why do you sayO YOU who have attained to faith! Why do you say
one thing and do another?one thing and do another?
Most loathsome is it in the sight of Allah that youMost loathsome is it in the sight of Allah that you
say what you do not do!”say what you do not do!”
((Qur’an: Saff: 81: 2-3Qur’an: Saff: 81: 2-3))

““Do you bid other people to be pious, the while youDo you bid other people to be pious, the while you
forget your own selves - and yet you recite the divineforget your own selves - and yet you recite the divine
writ?writ?
Will you not, then, use your reason?”Will you not, then, use your reason?”
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 44Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 44))

““THE PARABLE of those who were graced with the burden of the Torah,THE PARABLE of those who were graced with the burden of the Torah,
andand thereafter failed to bear this burdenthereafter failed to bear this burden, is that of an ass that carries a, is that of an ass that carries a
load of books [but cannot benefit from them]. Calamitous is the parableload of books [but cannot benefit from them]. Calamitous is the parable
of people who are bent on giving the lie to Allah's messages - for Allahof people who are bent on giving the lie to Allah's messages - for Allah
does not bestow His guidance upon such evildoing folk!”does not bestow His guidance upon such evildoing folk!”

““As for those who take the deniers of the truth (As for those who take the deniers of the truth (KAAFIRINKAAFIRIN) for their) for their
allies in preference to the believers (allies in preference to the believers (MU’-MINEENMU’-MINEEN) -) - do they hope todo they hope to
be honoured by thembe honoured by them when, behold, all honour belongs to Allahwhen, behold, all honour belongs to Allah
[alone]?”[alone]?”
((Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 139Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 139))

““And, indeed, He has enjoined upon you in this divine writAnd, indeed, He has enjoined upon you in this divine writ
thatthat whenever you hear people deny the truth of Allah'swhenever you hear people deny the truth of Allah's
messages and mockmessages and mock at them, you shallat them, you shall avoid their companyavoid their company
until they begin to talk of other thingsuntil they begin to talk of other things - or else, verily, you- or else, verily, you
will become like them. Behold, together with those whowill become like them. Behold, together with those who
deny the truth Allah will gather in hell the hypocrites,”deny the truth Allah will gather in hell the hypocrites,”
((Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 140Qur’an: An-Nisa’: 4: 140))

““Whoever seeks knowledge (intending) to argue withWhoever seeks knowledge (intending) to argue with
the learned (scholars), or to brag with the foolish;the learned (scholars), or to brag with the foolish;
or with it to attract peoples’ attention to himself;or with it to attract peoples’ attention to himself;
Allah will make him to enter the Hell-fire.”Allah will make him to enter the Hell-fire.”
((Hadith also reported by Tirmidzi and Ibn MajahHadith also reported by Tirmidzi and Ibn Majah))
WARNING

““We are (much) in need of a littleWe are (much) in need of a little AdabAdab, from (that of), from (that of)
going out (seeking) after much ofgoing out (seeking) after much of ‘ilm‘ilm (knowledge)” –(knowledge)” –
(Imam ‘Abdullah ibn al-Mubarak)(Imam ‘Abdullah ibn al-Mubarak)

"Indeed the"Indeed the scholarsscholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, but if they fallare the inheritors of the Prophets, but if they fall
into covetousness and greed, who shall be taken as leaders? Theinto covetousness and greed, who shall be taken as leaders? The
merchants and businessmenmerchants and businessmen are the trustees of Allah, so if they areare the trustees of Allah, so if they are
treacherous, who can be trusted? Thetreacherous, who can be trusted? The warriorswarriors are the guests of Allahare the guests of Allah
so if they become extreme (or take spoils without right), with whom canso if they become extreme (or take spoils without right), with whom can
we defeat the enemies? The righteous andwe defeat the enemies? The righteous and ascetic onesascetic ones are the kings ofare the kings of
the earth but if they become insincere (i.e. havethe earth but if they become insincere (i.e. have riya’riya’), who shall be), who shall be
followed? Thefollowed? The governors/rulersgovernors/rulers are the shepherds (protectors) of theare the shepherds (protectors) of the
people, but if the shepherd becomes a wolf, who shall protect thepeople, but if the shepherd becomes a wolf, who shall protect the
flock?"flock?"
- Imam 'Abdullah ibn al-Mubarak- Imam 'Abdullah ibn al-Mubarak

““((‘ilm‘ilm) Knowledge without) Knowledge without AdabAdab,,
is like (having) fire (but) without wood (fuel);is like (having) fire (but) without wood (fuel);
andand AdabAdab without knowledge (without knowledge (‘ilm‘ilm) ,) ,
is like (having) the Soul (but) without body.”is like (having) the Soul (but) without body.”

 Purify his soul (Purify his soul (nafsnafs) from impure) from impure
traits and blameworthytraits and blameworthy
characteristics.characteristics.
68
Such as:-Such as:-
‘‘ujubujub (self-conceit)(self-conceit)
JuJuhhudud (ungrateful; obstinacy)(ungrateful; obstinacy)
KibrKibr (arrogance)(arrogance)
HasdHasd (jealousy)(jealousy)
Riya’Riya’ (ostentatious)(ostentatious)
Hub al-jahHub al-jah (love for status)(love for status)
Hub ad-dunyaHub ad-dunya (love of the world)(love of the world)
Etc.Etc. .. amongst others ...... amongst others ....
He is indeed successful who purifyHe is indeed successful who purify
and causes it to grow,and causes it to grow,
((Qur’an: Shams: 91: 10Qur’an: Shams: 91: 10))

 Remove impediments (affairs of the world)Remove impediments (affairs of the world)
to devote with undivided attention to theto devote with undivided attention to the
study.study.
69
““Allah has not made for any man two hearts in his (one) body “Allah has not made for any man two hearts in his (one) body “
((Qur’an: Ahzab: 33: 4Qur’an: Ahzab: 33: 4))

 Never scorn knowledge nor exaltNever scorn knowledge nor exalt
himself/herself over the teacher.himself/herself over the teacher.
70
““Whosever has humility (tawwadhu’),Whosever has humility (tawwadhu’),
Allah will raise his rank (and status);Allah will raise his rank (and status);
and whosoever is arrogant (proud - takabbur)and whosoever is arrogant (proud - takabbur)
Allah will humiliate him.”Allah will humiliate him.”
((Hadith of our Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.Hadith of our Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.))
Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w. said:

 Observe priority in learning and submitObserve priority in learning and submit
to the advise of the teacher in theto the advise of the teacher in the
matters of his learning.matters of his learning.
71
““... and be satisfied with your ignorance... and be satisfied with your ignorance
if you have wronged a teacher.”if you have wronged a teacher.”
A POEM FROM KITAB “TA’LIM MUTA’LLIM”A POEM FROM KITAB “TA’LIM MUTA’LLIM”

 Must be patient and not be hasty inMust be patient and not be hasty in
learning as one may need to masterlearning as one may need to master
praiseworthy knowledge.praiseworthy knowledge.
72
““Calmness is from Allah, and (whereas)Calmness is from Allah, and (whereas)
hastiness is from satan.”hastiness is from satan.”
((Hadith reported by Baihaqy from Anas r.aHadith reported by Baihaqy from Anas r.a.).)
Prophet Muhammad s.a.a.w. said:

 Do not attempt to address every branchDo not attempt to address every branch
of knowledge but must observe orderof knowledge but must observe order
and begin with the most important.and begin with the most important.
73
O ye who believe! put not yourselves forward beforeO ye who believe! put not yourselves forward before
Allah and His Messenger: but fear Allah:Allah and His Messenger: but fear Allah:
for Allah is He who hears and knows all things.for Allah is He who hears and knows all things.
((Qur’an: Hujurat: 49: 1Qur’an: Hujurat: 49: 1))

 Learn to ascertain the noble nature ofLearn to ascertain the noble nature of
this or other science.this or other science.
74
Such as to know value & priority:-Such as to know value & priority:-
Fardh ‘AinFardh ‘Ain (personal obligation)(personal obligation)
Fardh KifayaFardh Kifaya (community obligation)(community obligation)
MuqaddimatMuqaddimat (introductory)(introductory)
MukhtasarMukhtasar (Summary)(Summary)
MufasssalMufasssal (Detail)(Detail)
MujmalMujmal (General)(General)
KhususiyaKhususiya (Specialised)(Specialised)
UsulUsul (Principles)(Principles)
Furu’Furu’ (Branches or secondary)(Branches or secondary)
Manfa’atManfa’at (beneficial)(beneficial)
Ghoyr Manfa’atGhoyr Manfa’at (not beneficial)(not beneficial)
Etc.Etc. .. amongst others ...... amongst others ....

 Purpose of learning is for the adornment of inner selfPurpose of learning is for the adornment of inner self
with virtues – seeking nearness to Allah (“with virtues – seeking nearness to Allah (“Taqarrub-il-Taqarrub-il-
lAllaahlAllaah”) and attainment of piety (“”) and attainment of piety (“TaqwaTaqwa”).”).
75
Verily the most honoured of you in the sightVerily the most honoured of you in the sight
of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you.of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you.
((Qur’an: Hujurat: 49: 13Qur’an: Hujurat: 49: 13))

Avoid polemics.Avoid polemics.
(Difference between(Difference between Maslahat al-mursalahMaslahat al-mursalah andand Bid’ahBid’ah))
1.1. NiyyatNiyyat : Essentials (: Essentials (ruknrukn ’’) in every worship (servitude).) in every worship (servitude).
2.2. Intention is formulated in the heart and mind.Intention is formulated in the heart and mind.
3.3. In language that one understands.In language that one understands.
4.4. Conscious awareness accompanying the act.Conscious awareness accompanying the act.
5.5. Clarity of action and purpose.Clarity of action and purpose.
6.6. To eradicate ambiguity.To eradicate ambiguity.
7.7. Sincerity towards Allah s.w.t.Sincerity towards Allah s.w.t.

As an example of the intention (and Du’a): as formulated byAs an example of the intention (and Du’a): as formulated by
Imam Qutb al-Irshad al-Habib ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Alawi al-HaddadImam Qutb al-Irshad al-Habib ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Alawi al-Haddad
((rahimahullahrahimahullah) – may we benefit from his Wisdom and secrets.) – may we benefit from his Wisdom and secrets.

As an example of the intention (and Du’a): as formulated byAs an example of the intention (and Du’a): as formulated by
Imam Qutb al-Irshad al-Habib ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Alawi al-HaddadImam Qutb al-Irshad al-Habib ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Alawi al-Haddad
((rahimahullahrahimahullah) – may we benefit from his Wisdom and secrets.) – may we benefit from his Wisdom and secrets.
““I intend to learn and teach (knowledge), to gain and to shareI intend to learn and teach (knowledge), to gain and to share
benefits, to receive and to give reminders, to seek (Allah’s)benefits, to receive and to give reminders, to seek (Allah’s)
bestowals and to bestow (upon others), to holdfast to thebestowals and to bestow (upon others), to holdfast to the
teachings of the Book of Allah (Qur’an) and As-Sunnah of Histeachings of the Book of Allah (Qur’an) and As-Sunnah of His
MessengerMessenger . , to invite towards the right guidance, to show to. , to invite towards the right guidance, to show to
the path of goodness, beseeching and seeking to please Allahthe path of goodness, beseeching and seeking to please Allah .,.,
so as to gain nearness to Him and hoping for (His acceptanceso as to gain nearness to Him and hoping for (His acceptance
and) His reward. Amin”and) His reward. Amin”

 Refer also to the traditional text :Refer also to the traditional text :
“Ta’lim Muta’allim Tariqit Ta’allum”
““INSTRUCTION OF THE STUDENT : THE METHOD OFINSTRUCTION OF THE STUDENT : THE METHOD OF
LEARNING”LEARNING”
by Sheikh Imam Tajuddin Nu’man al-Zarnuji.by Sheikh Imam Tajuddin Nu’man al-Zarnuji.
80All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2016))

82
““O ye who believe! Take not into your intimacy (O ye who believe! Take not into your intimacy (bitaanahbitaanah**))
those outside your ranks; they will not fail to corrupt you. Theythose outside your ranks; they will not fail to corrupt you. They
only desire your ruin: rank hatred has already appeared fromonly desire your ruin: rank hatred has already appeared from
their mouths; what their hearts conceal is far worse. We havetheir mouths; what their hearts conceal is far worse. We have
made plain to you the Signs, if ye have wisdom.made plain to you the Signs, if ye have wisdom.
((Qur’an : Aali’Imran: 3:118Qur’an : Aali’Imran: 3:118))
*bitaanah : advisors, consultants, protectors, intimate friends, helpers ...

83
““O ye who believe! (Be conscious of Allah and) FearO ye who believe! (Be conscious of Allah and) Fear
Allah (Allah (TAQWATAQWA) and be with those who are true (in) and be with those who are true (in
word and deed).”word and deed).”
((Qur’an: Taubah:9: 119Qur’an: Taubah:9: 119))

84
““He is not from my Ummah (community),He is not from my Ummah (community),
One who do not respect our elders, orOne who do not respect our elders, or
One who is not merciful (kind) to our young, andOne who is not merciful (kind) to our young, and
One who do not know ourOne who do not know our ‘Ulama’ -‘Ulama’ - Islamic scholarsIslamic scholars
(and respect their rights ) .”(and respect their rights ) .”
((Hadith of our Prophet s.a.w. Reported by TabranyHadith of our Prophet s.a.w. Reported by Tabrany))

85
“A person is upon the religion (way of life)
of the ones (friends) he is close to,
therefore look to whom you (love to be) close to.”
(Hadith reported by Tirmidzi)

86
””Verily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of theVerily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of the DEENDEEN
(Religion), so look thoroughly into(Religion), so look thoroughly into
the person from whom you acquirethe person from whom you acquire
(the knowledge of) your(the knowledge of) your DEENDEEN (Religion).”(Religion).”
Imam Muhammad ibnu Sirrin (rhm.a) advices and warns us Muslims:Imam Muhammad ibnu Sirrin (rhm.a) advices and warns us Muslims:

87
““Whosoever has an increase in knowledge without any increaseWhosoever has an increase in knowledge without any increase
in his detachment (in his detachment (ZUHDZUHD) for the world, would not have any) for the world, would not have any
increase with Allah except in his distancing himself further”increase with Allah except in his distancing himself further”
((Hadith reported by Dailami from ‘Ali ibn Abi Tolib r.aHadith reported by Dailami from ‘Ali ibn Abi Tolib r.a.).)

88
““He is not an ascetic (He is not an ascetic (ZAHIDZAHID) he who is detached (denounce) the) he who is detached (denounce) the
dirham and dinar (i.e. money), but verily a true ascetic (dirham and dinar (i.e. money), but verily a true ascetic (ZAHIDZAHID))
is one who detaches himself from all otheris one who detaches himself from all other
except the Irresistable (except the Irresistable (Allah jallaajalaa-luhAllah jallaajalaa-luh)”)”
((Explanation of “ZUHD” by Ibn ‘ArabiyExplanation of “ZUHD” by Ibn ‘Arabiy))

89
““He who does not exert abstinence (He who does not exert abstinence (WARA’)WARA’) while learning, Godwhile learning, God
(Allah) the Almighty chastise [him] in one of three ways:(Allah) the Almighty chastise [him] in one of three ways:
[1] either deprives him of life in his youth, or[1] either deprives him of life in his youth, or
[2] exiles him into [far-off] regions, or[2] exiles him into [far-off] regions, or
[3] punishes him [by forcing him to enter] the service of the Sultan.”[3] punishes him [by forcing him to enter] the service of the Sultan.”
A SCHOLARS’ ADVICE FROM KITAB “TA’LIM MUTA’LLIM”A SCHOLARS’ ADVICE FROM KITAB “TA’LIM MUTA’LLIM”

““O Allah! Make us see the Truth to be trueO Allah! Make us see the Truth to be true
and grant us the ability to follow it.and grant us the ability to follow it.
And make us see Falsehood to be false andAnd make us see Falsehood to be false and
grant us the ability to reject it.”grant us the ability to reject it.”

REMEMBER FROM PREVIOUS LESSONSREMEMBER FROM PREVIOUS LESSONS
EPISTEMOLOGY

Knowledge is a collection ofKnowledge is a collection of factsfacts,, informationinformation,,
and/orand/or skillsskills acquired through experience oracquired through experience or educationeducation oror
(more generally) the theoretical or practical understanding of(more generally) the theoretical or practical understanding of
a subject.a subject.
It can be implicit (as with practical skill or expertise) orIt can be implicit (as with practical skill or expertise) or
explicit (as with the theoretical understanding of a subject);explicit (as with the theoretical understanding of a subject);
and it can be more or less formal or systematic.and it can be more or less formal or systematic.
OXFORD DICTIONARIES’ DEFINITION:
EPISTEMOLOGY

factsfacts,, informationinformation
SkillsSkills
KnowledgeKnowledge
educationeducation
MA’-LUMAT
(information; facts)
SINA’-AH (skills, industrious);
FANNIYAH (artistry);
’ILM –
(science and knowledge)
TA-ADDIB; - which includes
TA’-LIM; TAR-BIYYAH;
TAZKIYYAH, etc.
EQUIVALENT TERMS USED IN ISLAM
EPISTEMOLOGY

Amongst the definitions:Amongst the definitions:
““....... Knowledge is the arrival (....... Knowledge is the arrival (huhussulul- )- )** of the meaningof the meaning
((ma’nama’na- ) of a thing or object of knowledge in the soul of the- ) of a thing or object of knowledge in the soul of the
subject; and simultaneously,..... Knowledge is the soul’s arrivalsubject; and simultaneously,..... Knowledge is the soul’s arrival
((wuwussulul- ) at the meaning of that thing or the object of- ) at the meaning of that thing or the object of
knowledge.”knowledge.”
By “meaning” (By “meaning” (ma’nama’na- ) is: “- ) is: “the recognition of the proper placethe recognition of the proper place
of anything in a systemof anything in a system ...”...”
** ““attainment; acquirement” is a better translationattainment; acquirement” is a better translation..
EPISTEMOLOGY
Prof. Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas

Whatever is outside of theWhatever is outside of the
person – to be regarded asperson – to be regarded as
information (information ( ) – not) – not
knowledge ( ).knowledge ( ).
Knowledge resides in theKnowledge resides in the
person – and is also anperson – and is also an
attribute (attribute (sifatsifat- ) of- ) of
the person him/herself.the person him/herself.
** By person we mean theBy person we mean the
““spiritual soulspiritual soul” -” - RUHRUH
and all its facets ofand all its facets of NAFSNAFS,,
QALB, ‘AQL, FU’AD, LUBBQALB, ‘AQL, FU’AD, LUBB,, etc.etc.
* Unlike those with secular worldview that regard
knowledge to reside in the person’s ‘physical’ (brain).
REMEMBER FROM PREVIOUS LESSONSREMEMBER FROM PREVIOUS LESSONSAll Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2016))

Information may notInformation may not
necessarily convey anynecessarily convey any
meanings, but can bemeanings, but can be
subjected to process orsubjected to process or
interpretation – by a humaninterpretation – by a human
– striving to seek and– striving to seek and
arriving at understanding ofarriving at understanding of
““meaningsmeanings” from it.” from it.
Knowledge has to doKnowledge has to do
with “with “meaningsmeanings” –” –
which may includewhich may include
abstract concepts andabstract concepts and
construct, beyond theconstruct, beyond the
material forms.material forms.

Every one may have equalEvery one may have equal
access to a givenaccess to a given
information.information.
Yet, there can beYet, there can be
difference in levels anddifference in levels and
depths of knowledge todepths of knowledge to
a given information,a given information,
depending upon whodepending upon who
contemplates upon it.contemplates upon it.

Just as raw data input areJust as raw data input are
meant to be processed bymeant to be processed by
the computer , our readings,the computer , our readings,
observations, news, dataobservations, news, data
and information etc. areand information etc. are
objects to be understoodobjects to be understood
and possible meanings fromand possible meanings from
it to be comprehended by usit to be comprehended by us
human.human.
It is when cognition ofIt is when cognition of
man are applied toman are applied to
process theseprocess these
information, that heinformation, that he
may be said to arrivemay be said to arrive
at ‘at ‘knowledgeknowledge’ (i.e.’ (i.e.
when it becomeswhen it becomes
meaningful).meaningful).

THUS the Qur’an categorizeTHUS the Qur’an categorize
these (information) as:these (information) as:
““SignsSigns” –” – aayataayat (( ))
Al-Qur’an –Al-Qur’an – aayat Qawliyyahaayat Qawliyyah
Universe –Universe – aayat Kauniyahaayat Kauniyah
THUS the Qur’anicTHUS the Qur’anic
approach for man’sapproach for man’s
education enjoins himeducation enjoins him
to “to “ReadRead” (” ( ) these) these
signs to arrive at thesigns to arrive at the
““meaningsmeanings” –” –
regarding theregarding the REALITYREALITY..

NoteNote::
Arabic word “Arabic word “universeuniverse” and “” and “a scholar; one whoa scholar; one who
is knowledgeableis knowledgeable” is spelt:” is spelt:
( )( )

http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/
http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/
http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/
http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/
http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/
http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/
http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/
http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/
All welcome to visit my web-blog:All welcome to visit my web-blog:

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