Similarly, to know whether something is true, it needs to know the truth on the one hand and to know that thing on the other hand, so that by comparing the two, it knows whether that thing is true or not. From this, it is understood that knowledge of the concept of a thing is not sufficient for knowing it, and knowledge of its instance is also necessary. However, knowledge of its instance is more difficult than knowledge of its concept; because its instance is outside the human being, and knowing something outside the human being is more difficult than knowing something within the human being. For example, knowing the truth and falsehood in terms of concept is not difficult and is achieved through the effort of the mind, but knowing them in terms of instance is difficult and is not achieved except through the effort of the limbs. Therefore, people differ on the instance of something about which they have no disagreement regarding its concept. Based on this, the lack of necessary information for knowing something—whether in terms of concept or instance—prevents knowing that thing, and acquiring the necessary information for knowing it—both in terms of concept and instance—is essential.

[The Obligation of Seeking Knowledge]

This is what is referred to in Islam as “seeking knowledge,” and it is considered obligatory for every Muslim[1], to the extent that Allah Almighty has said: ﴿وَقُلْ رَبِّ زِدْنِي عِلْمًا﴾[2]; “And say: ‘O Lord! Increase me in knowledge.’”