The very first word revealed in the Quran was not "pray" or "fast". It was "Read!" (Iqra'). From the first moment of revelation, Islam made knowledge a central part of a Muslim's life. This message is for every Muslim – a child learning the alphabet, a student at university, or an adult learning to read the Quran for the first time.
The First Revelation
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to spend time in the Cave of Hira near Makkah, reflecting and worshipping. There, the angel Jibril came to him and the first verses of the Quran were revealed:
"Read in the name of your Lord who created – created man from a clinging substance. Read, and your Lord is the Most Generous – who taught by the pen – taught man that which he knew not." (Surah Al-'Alaq, 96:1–5)
In just five verses, Allah mentions reading twice, the pen once and teaching twice.
Seeking Knowledge Is Worship
The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever takes a path in search of knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Paradise." (Sahih Muslim, 2699)
He also said: "The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5027)
Knowledge Raises People
Allah says: "Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees." (Surah Al-Mujadilah, 58:11) and "Say: are those who know equal to those who do not know?" (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:9)
Which Knowledge?
- First, knowledge of the deen: how to pray, read the Quran, and know Allah and His Messenger ﷺ.
- Then, beneficial knowledge of the world: science, medicine, technology, languages – used to help people and please Allah.
Muslim scholars throughout history excelled in both, from mathematics and astronomy to medicine.
Manners of a Student
- Have a sincere intention – learn to please Allah and benefit others.
- Respect your teachers.
- Be patient – knowledge comes step by step.
- Act on what you learn.
- Make du'a: "Rabbi zidni 'ilma" – "My Lord, increase me in knowledge." (20:114)
For Kids: "Iqra'" Challenge
This week, read one Islamic book or story every day with your family, and share one new thing you learned at dinner.
It's Never Too Late to "Read"
Whether you are 6 or 60, you can learn to read the Quran. Tehfiz-ul-Quran Academy offers patient, one-on-one online classes for beginners of all ages. Book a 3-day free trial.