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How important is the command "iqra" - read?

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In a Nutshell - Very important and profound request to read the world like a book.

The very first revelation to the Prophet (pbuh) was the imperative "Iqra" – "Read" or "Recite" This divine command holds extraordinary significance within Islam. Far from being solely about textual instruction, its deeper meanings emphasize seeking knowledge, critical thinking and the ongoing pursuit of understanding the world like a book. Within the Quran, "Iqra" establishes a lifelong process of self-improvement and exploration of the world, resonating far beyond its immediate context.



Introduction

Islam places a central value on acquiring knowledge, considering it a sacred duty. "Iqra" became the bedrock for this ethos and shaped early Muslim society by prioritizing literacy and scientific curiosity. However, its core message resonates with anyone committed to continuous learning and development, regardless of religious beliefs.



Evidences relating to the command "Iqra"

The Commanding Form: The divine choice of an imperative like "Iqra" underscores the immense importance attached to knowledge and understanding. This isn't a gentle suggestion, but an active charge with inherent urgency.

Quranic Importance: "Iqra" is mentioned repeatedly in the Quran, emphasizing that knowledge and the act of seeking it are essential for fulfilling one's Islamic responsibilities. Verses often pair "Iqra" with guidance emphasizing contemplation, questioning, and engaging with the natural world.

Scholarly Viewpoints

  • Al-Ghazali (classical scholar): He interpreted "Iqra" expansively, stating that it signifies not only reading the Quran but also exploring sciences, studying history, and understanding diverse cultures.

  • Muhammad Iqbal (modern philosopher): He highlighted the dynamic process of knowledge acquisition encouraged by "Iqra" – not mere rote learning but an ongoing questioning and intellectual engagement with the world.



Analysis

In its Islamic context, "Iqra" prioritises the pursuit of knowledge not for worldly success but for developing as a moral being, and deepening one's connection to Allah (swt). The command emphasizes understanding, reflection, and applying insights for improvement of oneself and one's community. However, this underlying principle, with its focus on personal development and critical engagement, holds value even in a secular setting.

Let's look at some of those who have done well in the contemporary business world and their relation to a simple form of reading:

  • Warren Buffett spends five to six hours per day reading five newspapers and 500 pages of corporate reports.
  • Bill Gates reads 50 books per year.
  • Mark Zuckerberg reads at least one book every two weeks.
  • Elon Musk grew up reading two books a day, according to his brother. Mark Cuban reads more than 3 hours every day.
  • Arthur Blank, co-founder of Home Depot, reads two hours a day.
  • Billionaire entrepreneur David Rubenstein reads six books a week.
  • Dan Gilbert, self-made billionaire and owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, reads one to two hours a day.



Misconceptions

  • Literacy focus: "Iqra" is often reduced to its link with literacy. While crucial, it goes further, highlighting a broader intellectual process and openness to exploration.

  • Past context: Its significance within Islam's early spread is undeniable, but the command continues to inspire Muslims engaged in science, critical thinking, and the arts, proving it far from obsolete.


    FAQs

    1. How does "Iqra" differ from simple rote learning?
      True understanding demands not merely memorizing, but questioning, reflecting, and finding broader meaning, as the Quran guides.

    2. Why doesn't the Quran provide an 'instruction manual' if knowledge is central? Rather than being handed answers, Muslims find a lifelong path in the Quran; its guidance promotes a dynamic process of personal exploration, aligned with "Iqra".

    3. How did "Iqra" shape early Muslim societies?
      Its influence fueled an era of scientific advancement, libraries, and a robust educational system, showcasing its power as a catalyst for positive development.

    4. If it stresses knowledge, why did 'dark ages' occur in some Muslim contexts?
      This complex and unfortunate history often involved political conflicts or misinterpretations. "Iqra", a tool for good, can always be misused, sadly not exclusive to Islamic societies.

    5. Can an atheist relate to "Iqra"?
      Absolutely While originating in an Islamic context, its emphasis on questioning, understanding the world, and lifelong growth finds common ground with a humanistic stance.

    6. How does this apply to women, historically facing limited educational opportunities?
      Women are equal in pursuit of knowledge; sadly, many Muslim cultures deviate from core messages in the Quran and sayings of the Prophet (pbuh) advocating for female education.

    7. How can a busy individual implement the spirit of "Iqra"? It needn't be solely academic; thoughtful exploration of any realm – the arts, history, our surrounding world, even current events – embodies this lifelong process.



    Conclusion - Importance of the command "Iqra" - "Read"

    Celebrated figures like Warren Buffett, Elon Musk, and others might not find inspiration directly in the Quran, but their dedication to continuous learning and self-improvement echoes the spirit of "Iqra". This connection shows a convergence of Islamic belief with a universally understood drive for human self-betterment. By examining "Iqra", both Muslims and non-Muslims can better understand the value Islam places on lifelong intellectual and spiritual growth.

    The command "Iqra" transcends simple literacy to encapsulate the profound and ongoing quest for knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of one's place within the world. Through an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Muslims aspire to fulfill their purpose and serve Allah (swt) as informed, critical thinkers, and empathetic members of society.

    For both Muslims and those of broader spiritual outlooks, the principle of seeking knowledge to improve oneself and one's community transcends any single tradition. With its focus on continuous exploration, "Iqra" is an injunction as vital in today's complex world as ever before.


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