The conditions for seeking worldly knowledge

Dear Islamic brothers! Nowadays, many have a strong desire to gain worldly knowledge. They work hard to secure their worldly future through various educational fields. Indeed, worldly knowledge has benefits and is not categorically forbidden to acquire. Yet, there are certain conditions that must be met.

Imam Aḥmad Razā Khān رَحْمَةُ الـلّٰـهِ عَـلَيْه explains:

*    Learning subjects that contain teachings of disbelief (kufr) is haram.

*    Permissible fields of study (those that do not go against Islamic beliefs and teachings) may be studied for a lawful profession.

*    If studying these subjects prevents a person from learning necessary Islamic knowledge then such education becomes haram.

*    Additionally, one must ensure that their faith and morals are not negatively affected.

*    One must remain steadfast in Islamic beliefs and manners.

If these conditions are met, learning permissible worldly knowledge to earn a lawful livelihood is allowed.^[1]

In another place, Imam Aḥmad Razā Khān رَحْمَةُ الـلّٰـهِ عَـلَيْه   writes:

Everybody must learn Islamic rulings related to their condition—this is an individual obligation (farḍ Ꜥayn). Until one acquires this knowledge, wasting time on subjects like geography and history is not allowed.^[2]