Passionate learning brings you closer to Allah
“If you come to knowledge with real energy and passion and devotion, Allah will uplift you with knowledge in ways you can never believe.”
The khutbah argues that passionately pursuing knowledge brings people closer to Allah, beautifies their character, and equips them to serve others.
The khutbah in 7 steps
- Taqwa is introduced through the example of Abdullah ibn Abbas’s wisdom and status under Umar.
- Abdullah’s close observation of the Prophet illustrates intentional learning and the Prophet’s prayers for his knowledge.
- The Quranic command to read and the prayer for increased knowledge establish learning’s central place in Islam.
- Students are urged to begin the school year with energy, passion, and devotion.
- Knowledge is presented as a means of spiritual growth, moral character, and care for creation.
- Abdullah’s decision to help a debtor prioritizes serving a Muslim’s need over extended private worship.
- The khutbah closes with prayers for students, oppressed communities, and a deceased community member.
In the khateeb's words
“The "ilm" is to be sought after. It's not seeking after you. No, I will come to you and you teach me on your times.”
“What Abdullah is teaching you and I is that if you come to knowledge with real energy and passion and devotion, Allah will uplift you with knowledge in ways you can never believe.”
“it is more beloved to me to walk with a fellow Muslim and take care of his or her need than it is for me to spend two years in i'tikaf in my masjid.”
“What knowledge is supposed to do for us is it's supposed to open up the secrets of Allah. It's supposed to bring you closer to knowing Allah. It's supposed to bring you closer to knowing the Prophet, alayhi salatu wasalam.”
For the dinner table
The khutbah tells the story of Abdullah ibn Abbas, who became a great scholar while still very young because he pursued knowledge with remarkable dedication. It reminds us that learning is honored in Islam and should bring us closer to Allah, the Prophet, and better character. Every subject can become meaningful when it helps us understand creation, ask deeper questions, and serve others well. Abdullah also teaches that knowledge is not only for personal achievement; it should move us to help people in difficulty. As a family, we can begin the school year by seeking knowledge eagerly and using it with kindness.
- What is one thing you would like to learn with more energy this year?
- How could a subject you study help you become kinder or wiser?
- Who might need your help this week, and how could you respond?
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