Briefly, what is the way to seek knowledge, and may Allah reward you with good? A – Briefly, in point form, the way to seek knowledge (is as follows): 1) Take care to memorize the Book of Allah. Allocate some time every day to memorize and read, such that your recitation is with reflection and understanding. And if you come across a beneficial point while reading, then make a note of it. 2) Take care to memorize that which is easy (for you) from the authentic Sunnah of the Messenger (peace be upon him) and (I recommend) memorizing (the book) “Umdatul-Ahkam”. 3) Concentrate (while seeking knowledge) such that you do not take a little knowledge from here and a little from there. This wastes your time and (unnecessarily) occupies your mind. 4) Start with smaller books and study them well, then move on to those above (in level) until you obtain knowledge little by little in a manner which makes firm (the knowledge) in your heart and to that which you are at peace (comfortable) with; 5) Take care in understanding the fundamental issues, their rules and the limits of all that passes by you, as it has been said: “Whoever does not take care to learn the fundamentals/principles, then he has prevented (himself) from arriving at the goal.” 6) Discuss issues with your Sheikh or someone who is known for his knowledge and religion. – Sheikh Bin Uthaymeen; Kitab-ul-Ilm, p. 119, no. 17 Da'wah without knowledge Q – Which is better: Giving Da'wah or seeking knowledge? A –Seeking knowledge is better and a priority. It is possible for the student of knowledge to undertake Da'wah while seeking knowledge, but it is not possible to do Da'wah without knowledge. Allah says: Say (O Muhammad, peace be upon him): “This is my way; I invite unto Allah with sure knowledge...” (Qur'an, 12:108) So how can Da'wah be given while one has no knowledge? And no one has ever given Da'wah without knowledge, and whoever has done so will not succeed. – Sheikh Bin Uthaymeen; Kitab-ul
