How to Seek Islamic Knowledge: Zarnuji’s Ta‘lim al-Muta‘allim Explained

“If you give knowledge all of yourself, it will give you some of itself. And if you give it part of yourself, it will give you nothing at all.”

Seeking Islamic knowledge is a devotional act which is, to use the Prophetic phrase, “Obligatory on every Muslim.” Many students, however, find themselves at a loss on how to embark on this transformational journey. In this series of lessons, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani will answer in this question by delving into a classic handbook seekers of knowledge have used for centuries, Zarnuji’s Ta‘lim al-Muta‘allim Tariq al-Ta‘allum (Instructing the Student on the Manner of Learning).
In covering the text, Shaykh Faraz will give an overview of how to choose one’s path of sacred learning, the qualities required of a seeker of knowledge, and how to stay consistent in one’s studies. In addition to explaining the advice given in the text, these lessons will provide much-needed guidance and context on how to bring these counsels into practice, making this course a valuable resource for all who seek to further their journey of studying Islam.

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About the text:

Ta‘lim al-Muta‘allim Tariq al-Ta‘allum (Instructing the Student on the Manner of Learning) is an invaluable primer on seeking knowledge written by a famed scholar from the Transoxanian tradition of Islamic learning. In this text, Burhan al-Din al-Zarnuji introduces the foundational principles to consider when approaching the Islamic sciences. He also highlights the inward qualities required of a seeker of knowledge—such as sincerity and reliance on Allah. In addition, the author provides guidance on choosing a teacher, taking advantage of one’s time, and venerating the path of knowledge and people of knowledge.
About the Author:

Burhan al-Din al-Zarnuji was a Transoxanian Hanafi scholar from the 6th century AH (13th century CE). He received his training under one of the leading Hanafi jurists of his era, Burhan al-Din al-Marghinani, author of the famed Hidaya. He is best known for authoring the text covered in this course, which offers key insights on how traditional Islamic scholars approached their study of the traditional Islamic sciences.
Who is this course for:

This course is for aspiring seekers of sacred knowledge who want to know how to approach the study of the Islamic sciences.
Learning outcomes:

  • Learn what areas of study to prioritize in your Islamic learning
  • Gain insight into the traits of heart required for a student of sacred knowledge
  • Learn about the proper manners (Adab) of study and why they are important