The Arabic word ʿilm (علم), which translates to knowledge, is used frequently in the Quran. This shows the status of knowledge in the Quran and Islam.
It was narrated from Anas bin Malik that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
"Seeking knowledge is a duty upon every Muslim, and he who imparts knowledge to those who do not deserve it, is like one who puts a necklace of jewels, pearls and gold around the neck of swines."
SEEKING TRUE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING GOD
A believer should believe and pursue knowledge of Allah as this makes one accomplish complete satisfaction and helps find the true essence of the word. A person who does not have true knowledge becomes astray and prone to harm in this world and the hereafter. Similarly, other kinds of knowledge are only beneficial in this world – there is no harm in moderately learning about it but they are of no use after death. This is why one should focus first on attaining the knowledge of God.
Knowledge holds a vital place in Islam, and the Quran recurrently encourages believers to learn knowledge and contemplate upon the signs of God, His creation, and the verses of Allah.
THE QURAN AND THE SUNNAH AS THE ULTIMATE SOURCES OF KNOWLEDGE
The Quran is regarded as the word of Allah which was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over a passage of time. The Sunnah that are the teachings – actions, sayings and the words of our Prophet (PBUH) together form the knowledge that is beneficial for every Muslim. The Quran stresses seeking knowledge - learning the world as a means to understand the signs of God and to become a better Muslim and fellow believer. This search for knowledge, engrained in the Quran and the Sunnah, helps Muslims with all aspects of their lives.
This is because the Quran is the perfect book which offers comprehensive guidance to humankind in several parts of life. The sunnah gives believers additional advice and teachings that were taught to others by the Prophet (PBUH) himself. Both of them serve as the ultimate sources of knowledge for a true believer that strengthens their faith; understanding the human mind and the world, helps them become more aware of their surroundings and treat others fairly and according to Islamic teachings.
A verse in the Quran states "Are those who know equal to those who know not?" (39:9)
This shows the importance of knowing and how a believer who knows is distinguished from the one who does not. Knowledge is associated with humility, wisdom and the fear of God.