Imam al-Ghazali and the signs of the ‘Ulama....scholars

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https://www.deoband.org/2010/11/general/guidance/imam-al-ghazali-and-the-signs-of-the-ulama/


[FONT=&quot]The First: an ‘alim is one who does not try to acquire wealth through his learning. [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot] It should also be borne in mind that no ‘alim can be regarded as one concerned about the hereafter merely due to his rejection of worldly wealth, unless he also has no ambition for worldly honour or status. For these ambitions are more harmful to the soul than the lust for wealth.[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]In other words, all of those warnings that have been mentioned above about giving preference to the world and seeking it not only include earning wealth but also include even more the seeking of grandeur. This is because the pitfalls and harms of seeking glory are greater than seeking wealth.[/FONT]
 
[FONT=&quot]The Second distinguishing characteristic of a true ‘alim is that there should be no contradiction between his knowledge and his practice of din. He preaches good to others and does not practice himself.[/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]Allah Most High says: “Do you enjoin righteousness upon others while you ignore your own selves, although you keep reciting the Book?” (Al-Baqarah: 44)He says elsewhere: “It is severely hateful in Allah’s sight that you say what you do not do.”(Al-Saff: 3)

The third distinguishing characteristic is that he is always concerned with such branches of knowledge that are beneficial for the hereafter and which exhort one to perform good deeds.

The Fourth distinguishing characteristic is that ‘ulama of the hereafter are least interested in the elegance of dress or delicacies of food. Such an ‘alim should, rather, exercise moderation in these matters, and follow the example of his seniors. He should bear in mind that simplicity in dress and food will be helpful to him to advance in nearness to Allah Most High and place him at a high rank among the ‘ulama of the hereafter.[/FONT]
 

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