🧭 Introduction:
In the Islamic scholarly tradition, the pursuit of knowledge (ṭalab al-ʿilm) has never been a casual or random endeavor. It is governed by a structured hierarchy, established principles, and refined etiquettes—recognized and preserved by scholars from the era of the Salaf up until today. Yet in our time, many individuals who are only beginning their intellectual journey find themselves trapped in a vortex of debates, denunciations, and ideological controversies that now proliferate across social media, da‘wah forums, and online platforms.
Motivated by zeal yet lacking foundational knowledge, some learners prematurely immerse themselves in books of refutation (rudūd), critical assessments rooted in jarḥ wa taʿdīl, and even disputes among preachers and teachers. The result is time consumed by conflict rather than construction—constructing the foundations of faith and understanding. Their hearts become hardened, their minds clouded with doubt (shubuhāt), and their tongues hasten to censure long before they grasp the issues at hand.
This tadhkirah stands as a critical reminder to anyone who claims to be seeking the truth: true knowledge begins at the foundations—not in the depths of discord. The authentic method of the Salaf was never to cultivate suspicion, but to nurture faith, discipline, and methodological clarity in progressive stages. Beware of entering the scholarly path through the wrong door. Begin with knowledge that rectifies your prayer, strengthens your tawḥīd, and refines your character—for it is this kind of knowledge that will save you not only in this world, but in the hereafter.
📚 Complete Summary
1️⃣ The Danger of Consuming Polemics Before Foundational Knowledge
Many enthusiastic learners fall into the trap of obsessively reading refutations, sectarian critiques, or jarḥ wa taʿdīl (biographical criticism), even before mastering basic beliefs or rituals. Time is wasted on conflicts rather than constructive learning. The result? A hard heart, a restless soul, and a confused understanding of the religion.
🔍 Knowledge doesn’t begin with condemnation—it begins with comprehension.
2️⃣ Knowledge Must Begin from the Fundamentals and Progress Gradually
The Salaf emphasized starting from the basics: ʿaqīdah, prayer, manners, and recitation. Jumping into advanced or controversial topics without mastering the essentials creates imbalance and arrogance. Knowledge is a process, not a shortcut.
📌 “You can’t build a house starting with the rooftop.”