Ilm
‘Ilm (Arabic: علم “knowledge”) is the Arabic term for knowledge. In the Islamic context, ‘ilm typically refers to religious knowledge. In the Quran, the term “ilm” signifies God’s own knowledge, which encompasses both the manifest and hidden aspects of existence. The Quran emphasizes that all human knowledge is derived from God. Even angels acquire knowledge solely through divine intervention. Simultaneously, the Quran underscores the significance of actively seeking knowledge, a principle that is reiterated in the hadith literature as well.
In its general usage, ‘ilm may refer to knowledge of any specific thing or proposition or any form of “learning”. Subsequently, the term came to be used to refer to various categories of “sciences”, especially when used in its plural form (‘ulum).
[Ilm (Arabic - Wikipedia](wikipedia/en/Ilm_(Arabic)
The Arabic phrase “شرف العلم شرف المعلوم” (Sharf al-ʿIlm Sharf al-Maʿlūm) translates to:
“The nobility of knowledge is derived from the nobility of what is known.”
Explanation:
This statement is a profound maxim often found in classical Islamic thought. It means that the value or honor of a particular type of knowledge depends on the importance and nobility of its subject matter (al-Maʿlūm, the “known”).
Context:
- In Islamic Sciences:
- For example, the study of Tawhid (Islamic monotheism) is considered the most noble form of knowledge because its subject is Allah, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Hence, ‘Ilm al-Tawhid (knowledge of monotheism) is the most exalted discipline.
- By contrast, other sciences, while beneficial, may not hold the same rank as they deal with less exalted subjects.
- Hierarchical Value of Knowledge:
- This phrase establishes a hierarchy of sciences, with religious and metaphysical knowledge being of the highest value because their subject is Allah or the principles of existence ordained by Him.
- Secular sciences, while important and valuable, derive their honor from their practical utility and the benefits they bring to society.
- Philosophical Application:
- This phrase reflects the broader principle in Islamic Epistemology that prioritizes knowledge leading to understanding Allah and fulfilling one’s purpose of creation. As such, sciences directly linked to Allah’s attributes or laws are deemed inherently superior.
Practical Implication:
When seeking knowledge, one should consider the ultimate purpose of that knowledge and its contribution to their spiritual, moral, and intellectual development. It reminds learners to prioritize pursuits that bring them closer to Allah and fulfill their existential purpose.
Al-‘Ilm Al-Ladunni is the knowledge that Allah bestows upon his believing slaves through divine inspiration. It is also known as “the divinely-inspired knowledge” or “special knowledge from God’s Presence”.
Here are some characteristics of Al-‘Ilm Al-Ladunni:
- It is knowledge of the Unseen or mysteries.
- It is a divine endowment or award.
- It is knowledge imparted into the heart.
- It does not contradict the Quran and Sunnah.
- It can be experienced by both prophets and non-prophets.
- For non-prophets, it can take the form of inspiration, but it has no legal value.
The term “ladunni” means “from Us, from Our presence”. It is inspired by a verse in the Quran about the knowledge of Hazrath Khidr
Three main analytical categories for the life of a human being The ‘ilm, the ‘amal, and the hal. ‘Ilm is your knowledge. ‘Amal is your action. And hal is the state of your being, your consciousness. - The Warning, the Blame, and the Prescription: ‘Ilm, Amal, and Hawl - The Usuli Institute
‘Ilm (knowledge) and Amal (actions) go together as how Iman (faith) and Taqwa (fear or consciousness of Allah) go together.
“Knowledge without acting upon it is like a tree without fruit.”
Islam insists on acquiring knowledge.
Ya Allah, increase our knowledge and give us the ability to bring that knowledge to our family and friends and implement it in our daily lives in hopes of winning your love and mercy.
You cannot have righteous action ("amal") without first acquiring knowledge ("ilm"); you must first understand what is right and wrong through knowledge.