other Muslims. It is also a must to learn about all minor sins so that one may save himself from them.

Conditions of gaining worldly knowledge

Dear Islamic brothers! In today’s day and age, a lot of attention is given to worldly education. Many Muslims work extremely hard to gain worldly knowledge in order to have a better future. Without a doubt, there are benefits of acquiring this knowledge, and it cannot be said it is completely impermissible to acquire it. However, there are some conditions that must be fulfilled if one wishes to do this.

The Reviver of Islam and Imam of Ahl al-Sunnah, Imam Aḥmad Razā Khān رَحْمَةُ الـلّٰـهِ عَلَيْه expands on this:

*   It is haram to study sciences containing teachings of disbelief.

*   In order to work a permissible job, one is permitted to study permissible sciences (that do not contain teachings which oppose Islamic beliefs and principles).

*   This is permitted as long as it does not prevent someone from learning the necessities of Islam; otherwise, worldly knowledge which prevents one from seeking necessary Islamic knowledge is haram.

*   Additionally, it must not affect his religious beliefs and ethics.  He must remain steadfast upon the beliefs and teachings of Islam and maintain his Islamic lifestyle.

If these conditions are fulfilled, there is no harm in gaining worldly knowledge for the purpose of working a permissible job.^[1]

The great imam also added: