Investing in the Future: Islamic Perspectives on Education

There is no denying that Muslims today are raising the next generation in a rapidly evolving world, courtesy of fast-paced digital and technological advancement. Other than the very genuine concern for raising children with strong faith and love for their religion amidst what seems like strong opposition from secular groups, another major problem is the question of how to ensure that your children will grow with the need to learn, with the thirst of knowledge and the genuine interest in discovering the how, whens and wheres, when technology, like in the case of Artificial Intelligence is all but stilling the innate curiosity of young minds?

The need for education is paramount, to say the least, but it is a need that should be addressed with affection, patience and tolerance. For the Believers, they need go no further than the Quran, Sunnah, Hadith and Islamic History to comprehend this need of the time and address it without wasting time in investing in the future of our generation. This brings us to the question of the stance of the Islamic faith on Education.

Importance of Education in Islam

Contrary to the rampant false belief that Islam hinders education and promotes ignorance, education ironically, is the cornerstone of the Islamic faith, leading a believer towards the fulfillment of his potential, imbued with the essence of enlightenment and progress. A thorough understanding of the Quran, Hadith and other sources of Islamic law ultimately point straight to the unopposed truth, that Islam considers seeking education and knowledge as a fundamental obligation for all individuals irrespective of their gender, age, or social status.

From the very first revelation of the Holy Quran, the status of learning, knowledge and education was set, continuously reinforced by subsequent revelations which would strongly encourage the believers to reflect, ponder and allow themselves to be guided through learning. ‘Iqra’, was the very first word of the first ayah revealed to the Prophet ﷺ in Makkah, giving the command to ‘Read’.

ٱقْرَأْ بِٱسْمِ رَبِّكَ ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَ

Recite in the name of your Lord who created –

خَلَقَ ٱلْإِنسَٰنَ مِنْ عَلَقٍ

Created the human being from a clinging substance.

ٱقْرَأْ وَرَبُّكَ ٱلْأَكْرَمُ

Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous –

ٱلَّذِى عَلَّمَ بِٱلْقَلَمِ

Who taught by the pen –

عَلَّمَ ٱلْإِنسَٰنَ مَا لَمْ يَعْلَمْ

Taught the human being that which he knew not. (Al Quran 96:1-5)

Subsequent verses from multiple surahs have impressed upon the need for learning and reflection, making it necessary for reaching the higher levels of faith and spirituality and becoming true believers, regardless of whether a believer is male or female.

The Ahadith of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ are also emphatic in propounding the need for education and seeking knowledge to the point of marking it obligatory. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have said:

‘Seeking knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim.’ (Ibn Majah 224)

Interestingly, all the major books of Hadith have a chapter dedicated to virtues and importance of seeking Knowledge and Learning as well as the status of a scholar. For example, in Sahih Al-bukhari there is a chapter titled, ‘The virtue of one who acquires Ilm (learning) and imparts it to others.’

The connection between faith and the pursuit of knowledge is thus closely inter-related, like how learning about the universe through the correct channels and reflecting over it leads to the understanding of the vastness of Allah’s SWT supremacy and strengthening our beliefs.

Education in Islamic History

Numerous instances in the Islamic History at different periods are a testament to the elevated status of Education in Islam. The earlier mentioned verses of the first revelation commanded the Prophet ﷺ to Read, and promised to give mankind knowledge which they did not have. This was the beginning of the final message of Allah SWT to mankind, its revelations spanning a course of 23 years, that was to bring the greatest revolution in human history. From the darkest deserts of Arabia, it transformed ignorant nations, making their men world leaders, as it enlightened a civilization that would spread the light of knowledge all over the globe for more than a thousand years.

In the Time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

A very significant event from the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ life that highlights learning as integral to faith lies in the aftermath of the Battle of Badr, the first battle in Islam. The Muslims emerged victorious despite being heavily outnumbered and a number of the non-believers, including some literate ones, were taken prisoners. When the time came to deal with the prisoners of war, the Prophet ﷺ announced that the ransom would be considered paid if each of the literate prisoners would teach ten Muslims how to read and write and they would be set free. This learning exchange was proposed by the Prophet ﷺ himself, though the teachers were non-Muslims.

The Golden Age of Islam

The efforts made by the Prophet ﷺ and the four Caliphs RA towards encouraging education ensured that far from taking a backseat after their deaths, the pursuit from knowledge went on to become the highlight of what came to be called the Golden Age of Islam, ironically while the West was going through the Dark Ages. Even more ironic is the fact that the religion so much berated for eschewing and discouraging education was responsible for playing a highly central role in advocating the need for education and scientific and scholarly pursuits. Interestingly, Historians credit a Muslim woman, Fatima Al Fihri for her vision and investment that paved the way for the foundation of the world’s first degree granting university, University of Al-Qrawiyyin, in Fez, Morocco, that is still operational. While some critics may dispute what the UNESCO has acknowledged, there is absolutely no denying the fact that the Arabian Peninsula as well as Andalusian Spain became the international hub for learning and knowledge, attracting visitors from all over the world.

From the 9th to the 14th century, the names of notable scholars such as Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Miskawayh, al-Ghazali, al-Zarnuji and Ibn Khaldun from various parts of the world, spanning from North Africa to Central Asia, are remembered for their achievements and the various treatises on how education should be implemented within an Islamic context. Their perspective was unique in acknowledgement of the multi-dimensionality of human experience across the seas and set forth a learning process that was continually evolving to adjust to global standards, rather than being static. In the words of a scholar:

‘Islam was viewed not as a discipline of religious beliefs and theology, but as a set of ideas, ideals, and ethics that encompass all aspects of human life’ (Al-Sharaf, 2013, p. 278).

This period went on to become the Golden Age of Islam at a time when Europe was going through its Dark Ages and had yet to see the Renaissance. The Muslims laid down the foundations of great learning centers and libraries in the central hubs like Baghdad, Cordoba, and Cairo. They established the first primary schools for children and universities for continuing education. They advanced the sciences which would form the basis for today’s modern science.

Medieval Islamic education was not just about learning facts but took into serious consideration, a student’s physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. The 12th century Syrian physician al-Shayzari noted that the students should not be treated harshly, nor made to do busy work that doesn’t benefit them at all. The great Islamic scholar al-Ghazali also noted that ‘prevention of the child from playing games and constant insistence on learning deadens his heart, blunts his sharpness of wit and burdens his life. Thus, he looks for a ruse to escape his studies altogether.’ Instead, he believed that educating students should be mixed with fun activities such as playing with toys and sports.

Education from an Islamic perspective in the contemporary era, unfortunately has slid down quite from the standards of yesteryears. The inevitable divide resulting from imperialism between ‘Islamic Schools’ and ‘Secular Schools’ may have encouraged some towards proposing an integrated form of education, but there still remains a lot to be done. The need stands strong for institutions with strong religious foundations and a healthy encouragement towards promoting moral values, critical thinking, the pursuit of knowledge and a sense of responsibility towards humanity and the environment.

Nurturing Curiosity and Love of Learning in Children

With the importance of education in Islam established above, it becomes the responsibility of parents, teachers and caretakers of young children to ensure the generation of tomorrow is raised with a healthy love for learning. Instilling this interest and encouraging the naturally ensuing curiosity has a profound and long-lasting impact towards molding a child’s character and attitude towards intellectual and educational growth. Scientific research has proven that there is no age too young for encouraging learning, because a child’s mind is ready to soak up knowledge like a sponge in its initial years. Unfortunately, while there is absolutely no denying that technological advances have benefitted mankind, it has also to some extent curbed the instinct of a child to probe and explore. It thus becomes imperative for parents and educators to cultivate a child’s natural curiosity with a positive and engaging approach, in order to foster a genuine love of learning. Whether the objective is achieved with success or not depends on the approach taken. It is not impossible though it is a multifaceted task, requiring a continuous effort towards building a nurturing environment that practices tact and patience, along with ample encouragement towards play-based learning and a supportive community. The resulting curiosity and the desire to explore should be recognized and acknowledged as progress for it is what will ultimately lead to igniting the foundation for a strong passion for knowledge and learning in our young generation.

It is important to understand that children are not inanimate to be steered in one direction and expected to remain that way. They have feelings, emotions and thoughts like any adult, and it is these thoughts and feelings that need to be encouraged. There is no particular formula or curriculum to nurture a love of learning because every child is different in every aspect. A child might be interested in learning more about something one day and then finding it to be challenging leading to frustration the next day. Our task is to experiment with different ways that could help foster a love of learning, possibly in what the child is interested in, to help them achieve personal fulfilment and satisfaction. While that is an admirable long-term benefit to wait for, some expected benefits of lifelong learning that bear fruit early on in the process have been highlighted.

Benefits to Expect from Nurturing Learning in Children

1. With a strong cognitive flexibility, the child finds it easy to cope with the fast-paced developments in the world around them.

2. They become proficient in handling challenging situations by themselves.

3. Knowledge and Curiosity go a long way in strengthening a child’s confidence.

4. When the child acquires basic practical life skills, it encourages him to become a good communicator and leader.

Tarbiyyah: The Islamic Way to Nurture

With the importance Islam places on education and learning, it comes to no surprise that this beautiful religion has given us instructions for inculcating the love for knowledge and curiosity in children, especially through the Seerah of the Prophet ﷺ. Indeed, Islamic intellectual tradition has a specific term Tarbiyah, which is the raising of a child with the education, values and resources which will guide him towards not only reaching his full potential as a human and a Muslim but also help them attain righteousness and happiness in this world and the Hereafter. Tarbiyah is different from Ta’leem which is fact-based education and focuses more on the how tos, for example the memorization of duas. Tarbiyah is more relationship-based and about helping the child with the bond with his Creator through encouraging him to turn to Him and ask whatever he needs. Although the methods would vary according to the children, the parents and cultural and social norms, a few necessary ingredients for a healthy Tarbiyah recipe have been highlighted below in the light of Quran and Sunnah.

1. Attitude: Easy-going, Gentle and Approachable

Understandably, our Deen instructs that Tarbiyah should be practiced with gentleness and softness. The Prophet ﷺ said:

‘Whenever gentleness is added to something, it adorns it; and whenever it is withdrawn from something, it leaves it defective.’ [Abi Dawud 4808]

It becomes the responsibility of the parents, teachers and caretakers to have an easy-going attitude that is inviting to children and a mellow yet firm approach as they work to enhance the child’s natural abilities and subtly direct him towards achieving their best.

2. A Positive Attitude Towards Learning

Children consider their caretakers as role-models, their actions reflecting prominently in the child’s development. Islamic intellectual tradition does not have a specific age for learning, rather it emphasizes that knowledge is a life-long pursuit. Adults should be careful in choosing hobbies and weekend activities and ensure that they are doing at least one activity in a week that involves learning, like attending Quran Halaqas. It is also helpful to invite children to make dua together for increase in ilm, knowledge. One of the Duas Prophet Muhammed ﷺ was asked to make comes in Surah Taha:

وَقُل رَّبِّ زِدْنِي عِلْمًا

Say: My Lord, increase me in knowledge. (20:114)

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:

Whoever travels a path in search of knowledge, Allah makes easy for him a path to Paradise. (Sahih Muslim 2699)

3. Experience + Reflection = Learning

While knowledge from books is important, gaining from experience arguably has more potential to solidify a strong love of learning in children. Involving children in new and interesting activities which stimulate their brain positively builds their world view from a larger library of information. Many notable Sahaba RA who would sit with the Prophet ﷺ were youngsters who were constantly involved in the day to day living as well as travelling with the Prophet ﷺ at a young age. These companions were truly blessed with the honor of learning in the early years with the best of humans as he ﷺ taught them to reflect on the Nature of life. Some of the names include: Osama ibn Zayd, Abdullah ibn Omar, Anas ibn Malik, Abdullah ibn Amr, Abdullah ibn Abbas, Mu’adh ibn Jabal, Zaid ibn Thaabit and countless others. Radhi Allahu Anhum

‘Abdullah Ibn ‘Abbas RA said: ‘One day, I was riding behind the Prophet ﷺ when he said: ‘Young man! I am teaching you (some) words: Follow Allah’s orders and He will protect you; fulfill His rights and you will find Him with you. If you need something, ask Allah; and if you ask for help, ask Allah (alone).’ (Tirmidhi 2516)

4. Mistakes: Opportunities Not Faults or Failure

Caretakers and educators should understand themselves first that learning is through mistakes, not without them. Then practice this with the children so that they also understand that mistakes are not faults, failure or ‘a step down’. Everyone is liable to make mistakes, and our job is to learn from them. The companion Anas bin Maalik RA had the honour of serving the Prophet ﷺ for years. Two oft-quoted Ahadith narrated from him describe the approach of Prophet ﷺ as a mentor:

Anas ibn Malik RA reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ, said, ‘All of the children of Adam are sinners, and the best of sinners are those who repent.’ (Sunan Ibn Majah 4251)

Anas RA reported: “I never felt any piece of velvet or silk softer than the palm of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, nor did I smell any fragrance more pleasant than the smell of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. I served him for ten years, and he never said ‘Uff’ (an expression of disgust) to me. He never said ‘Why did you do that?’ for something I had done, nor did he ever say ‘why did you not do such and such’ for something I had not done. (Riyadh-us-Saliheen 621).

Indeed, it becomes apparent that the Sunnah-recommended attitude to take in Tarbiyah is one that is reformative, emphasizing improvement rather than punishment and censure. Along with many other benefits, this approach transforms mistakes into successes.

5. Towards Responsibility and Decision-Making

Demanding and commanding often come easily to adults especially when in role of caretakers and educators. However, this is detrimental to a child’s ability to develop foresight and to comprehend the possible ramifications of any actions they are planning. It is an essential life skill especially when raising children to be responsible for their actions, to anticipate what is likely to happen as a consequence of their actions. It is advisable to occasionally ask children to be part of decision making with a simple question like: ‘What do you think will happen if we did this or that?’

The Prophet ﷺ would sometimes ask the companions to answer a question when an issue would come up, to train them to resolve cases. He ﷺ would tell a certain companion to get up and make a judgement between them. The Sahabi (companion) would then ask, ‘Ya RasulAllah ﷺ , shall I judge between them while you are here, in our midst?’ The Prophet ﷺ would respond in the affirmative. It is thus unsurprising that these estimable young companions would go on to become successful and just governors and judges from the training given by Prophet ﷺ as the Islamic Empire expanded.

6. Think Past the Obvious

Any course of knowledge or learning should encourage the student to think past the dictated or the obvious knowledge. Our Deen gives ample room for reflection, pondering and going beyond that one ‘an answer’. Encouraging children to learn through looking for similarities and understanding underlying principles is an important aspect of Tarbiyah as seen in the Seerah of the Prophet ﷺ. He ﷺ would often put questions about life and death, success and failure to the companions RA, instead of succinct fact-giving.

The Prophet ﷺ asked his companions, ‘What would be the situation of someone who has a river at his door and everyday, five times a day he comes out and he takes a bath in that river? At the end of the day would he have any dirt on himself?’ They responded, ‘There would be no dirt on him, O RasulAllah ﷺ.’ Then the Prophet ﷺ said, ‘Similarly there are the five ṣalawāt, cleansing the person in this way.’ (Bukhari and Muslim)

DEENIN Kids offers a promising addition to your Tarbiyah sessions with their versatile learn and play ‘Allah Loves You!’ Affirmation and Memory Cards. This diverting set of multi-purpose cards is carefully designed to nurture a child’s natural learning inclination and spiritual growth as it motivates the child to reflect over his bond with his Creator. The cards are not simply for daily affirmations and engaging memory games but equally important as being impactful conversation starters and self-discovery prompts.

Conclusively, the paramount position Education and learning hold in Islam cannot be denied or even understated. Islam is a religion of progression and peace, advocating for an enlightened, informed and a compassionate community through personal growth of individuals, societal development, and spiritual enlightenment. As Muslims raising the generation of an uncertain tomorrow, it is important to embrace the teachings of Islam in upholding the values of seeking knowledge, as we pave the way for a future that is marked by learning, tolerance, understanding and progress.

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