Iqra
This is the first revelation from Allah (God), to Prophet Muhammad Salallah Alaihi Wassalam (SAW). Iqra means 'read'.
Islam emphasises that it is a duty for all Muslims (men and women), to educate themselves in all things - to continually seek knowledge and be educated.
It is reported by Ibn Masud that Prophet Muhammad (SAW ) said the position of only two persons is enviable:
1. the person who has wealth and s/he spends it in the way of righteousness
2. the person whom Allah gave wisdom with which s/he adjudges and teaches to others.
A Muslim is not a Muslim just by birth but because s/he is a follower of Islam. Therefore it is our obligation to acquire knowledge and practice the knowledge that we have acquired in the path that has been set by Allah.
Everything that a Muslim does in the process of acquiring knowledge i.e. travelling, reading the Quran or attending centres of learning, is identified as an act of worshiping Allah. The purpose of gaining knowledge is to bring us closer to Allah.
The knowledge that we have is to be used for bringing good to our loved ones and bringing humanity and justice to everyone, irrespective of race, religion or social status. It is never for personal gain.
The process of learning does not stop due to age but is a continuous process.
This is what we wish to achieve at the Mt Eden Islamic Education and Information Center. We welcome non-Muslims who are interested in Islam. From our mutual discussions we can become better educated on Islamic and non-Islamic issues.