Concept of education in Islam
Learning process is neither child centered nor teacher centered, but a collective system based on practical teaching
Khursheed Nabi Malla
Islam is a complete way of life. Islam provides mankind with a complete guidance for the acquisition of knowledge and transformation of education. Islam lays emphasise more on education. But the philosophy of education as provided by the Islam is quite different from the philosophies of non-Muslim philosophers.
The philosophy put forth by Islam must therefore include the concept of accountability of deeds in hereafter and applicability. Man is supposed to acquire knowledge in order to un explore the knowledge already present. The concept of education must be based on the doctrine of unity of Allah and the Prophethood of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). This is regarded as the guiding principle of the Islamic educational philosophy.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “Acquisition of knowledge is obligatory upon both Muslim men and women.”
The more emphasise is being put on the acquisition of the knowledge. The primary goal of the education in Islamic philosophy is to make the individual aware about his creator, purpose of creations and to identify himself and to have cognizance of Allah.
The main purpose of life according to Islam is to seek delight of Allah. The activities of humans are not restricted to the mere worship but they are directed to acquire knowledge to realise the system of rights of all the living and non-living creatures of Allah, which are of great importance for his or her survival.
Education is neither vocational centered nor the vocational aspect is ignored but a balanced approach is provided. Any philosophy developed till now lays stress on the one aspect or the other that is some lays stress on the character aspect while others on the vocational aspect. But then philosophy of education as pronounced by Allah through Prophet Muhammad (SAW), gives equal weight age to all, the aspects viz. character, social, moral, vocational etc. None of the aspects have been provided more importance over others. That is why it has not been criticised till date.
Surah 96 (Al-Alaq) is the first chapter of Holy Quran. It starts with the word “Iqra” (read). It says, “Read: in the name of Preserver, who created, who created man from a clot of blood. Read and thy Preserver is the greatest benefactor. Who Taught by the pen, He taught the man what he didn’t know….”
In Surah 2 (Al-Baqarah) verse 123, Allah says, “Teach them ‘The Book’ and wisdom.”
The above verses of Quran reflect the importance of education in Islam that knowledge should me acquired in light if the obedience of the creator.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) laid stress on the acquisition of knowledge. The importance of knowledge and the level of scholars in Islam can be better estimated by the following quotes of Prophet Muhammad (SAW):
“Acquire knowledge from Cradle to Grave.”
“Scholars are the heirs of the prophets.”
Also Prophet Muhammad (SAW) termed the ink of the scholars holier than the blood of martyrs.
Islamic philosophy of education is unique and universal in nature in comparison with the other philosophies like naturalism, idealism, and pragmatism etc. Because the philosophy is created by Allah, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) though Quran for the guidance of mankind irrespective of the creed, colour, class, age and sex. Therefore discrimination is completely discouraged.
No man has been given importance over others, except the one who is more God fearing as revealed by the holy Quran. The concept is based on the fact that Allah is the chief source of authentic knowledge; which he provided as and when required to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) through his revelations. For every Muslim the acquisition of such knowledge has been made compulsory.
The success of knowledge depends upon the practicability of that knowledge. The Islamic concept of knowledge is not only based on theories but it is applicable in the day to day activities of our real life. The practicability of knowledge as advocated by the Islam can be better understood by analysing the benefits as provided by such knowledge.
Progress in literature; progress in science; development of ethics and morality; guidance for the optimum usage of natural resources; provides guidelines regarding rights and duties of citizens, leadership and political setup.
It is therefore only the principles of Islamic philosophy of education that the complete and versatile development of human beings becomes possible.
Skill development has become the main thrust of our education system. Keeping in view the need for skill and professional development, Islam has always provided a full-fledged support and favored the adoption of professions like agriculture, medicine, science, handicrafts etc. while going through the history we came to know the contribution of Muslims towards skill development.
In Islamic philosophy of education, learning process is neither child centered nor teacher centered, but it is considered a collective system based on practical teaching. The teacher’s role is not totally ignored. Teacher is supposed to adopt soft attitude while students are not allowed to take undue advantage of the soft attitude of the teacher.
Therefore the philosophy of education as presented by Islam provides a complete development of a human being in all aspects viz. spiritually, morally, socially, as well as economically. But the ultimate aim of education according to Islamic philosophy should be living according to the teachings of Holy Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to be successful in the life hereafter.
Author can be mailed at khursheedmalla47@gmail.com
