Issue No: 134
14th September 2012
26th Shawwal 1433 A.H.
Salamun alaykum,
It's check in time at the University:
The month of September heralds a new chapter in the life of the young women and men around the world aspiring to pursue higher education. Having got over the excitement of success in the sixth form 'A' level examinations these youths are now occupied in sorting the registration formalities and accommodation arrangements at the Universities. As they register for their courses of study at the University this step is the beginning of realizing an ambition to pursue a career. Now all thoughts and energy will be focused on succeeding in pursuing the course. Thus being able to graduate with flying colors and make a successful living.
'IQRA' the command to read:
Seeking of education has been highly emphasized in our noble Deen Islam. Islam has placed great emphasis on acquisition of knowledge. The first word –IQRA- the command to read in the first verse of the holy Quran underscores the significance attached to learning. Numerous traditions from the noble Prophet and Ahlul Bayt a.s. have been reported on the obligation of seeking knowledge.
During lifetime of our beloved sixth Imam J'afar As Sadiq a.s., he had the opportunity of promoting scholarship. Books record names of more than 4000 students attending teaching circle of the Imam. In addition to the Religious sciences Imam initiated teaching of science of Algebra, Biology, Medicine, Physics, Botany and Chemistry.
Two states for a Shia:
In exhorting for seeking knowledge, Imam J'afar As Sadiq a.s said," I like to see the young men following two states: either a scholar or a learner. If one does not do (i.e. one of these), then he is wasting his time. If he wastes he loses, and if he wastes he commits a sin"
As we observe the sad day of wafat of our beloved sixth on the 25th of Shawwaal, ponder over the hadith of this Imam and consider the following questions:
- Are you following one of the two types of states liked by the Imam?
- How can you avoid being a loser?
Wa ma tawfiqi illa billah
Fazle Abbas Datoo
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Resident Alim
Wessex Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat