The status of a scholar compared to that of a worshipper is...

The status of a scholar compared to that of a worshipper is like a full moon to the star. Scholars are the heirs of prophets; prophets do not leave dinars or dirhams but it is knowledge they leave, so whoever seeks knowledge, his/her fortune is great."1 "Whoever desires worldly fortune should seek knowledge, whoever wants the Hereafter should also seek knowledge and whoever looks for both, should be a seeker of knowledge.

Learning is compulsory upon every Muslim; Allah loves the seekers of knowledge."2 Islam is keen on building balanced personalities, by satisfying basic human instincts, and giving required training in ethical, physical, intuitive, and instinctive fields. The mind and morals are given control over primitive instincts in human beings and materialistic matters. This is done in order to secure elevation of people from an animal level to a sublime human level.

Endless efforts are expended to develop ethical and intuitive norms which modify psychological standards of people. For this reason, ethics are exalted by Qur'an and firm calls are made for good conduct. Allah the Highest says: (1) al-Kulaini. al-Kafi. Vol. I. Chap. 3. p. 34. (2) aJ-Kulairpi. al-Kafi. Vol. I. Chap. 3. p. 331.

[ 21 ] "Tread then the straight path as you are commanded, and also those who repent with you; and transgress not; surely He sees what von do." Holy Qur'an (11-112) "Surely you are on an exalted morality." Holy Qur'an (68:4) A review of the Prophet's Tradition regarding education, reveals that morals is the fundamental aim. The Prophet proclaimed: "I have been sent to complete the noblest of morals. It is evident from the above that ethics is one of the most important goals of Islamic education.

The other field of Islamic education is the spiritual and devotional upbringing. People are introduced to the Creator and shown His Majesty and Unity, because obedience to Allah is the purpose of human existence on earth. "I have not created jinn and mankind except to serve Me." Holy Qur'an (51:56) Hence, bringing up children in the light of knowledge and love towards Allah is a pre-conditional step.

Thinking about Allah's Glory and practicing Islamic rites are further milestones of the Islamic education code. It is noteworthy that an Islamic bringing-up sublimes aesthetic tastes, enhances spiritual horizons, and motivates the mind for enjoying spiritual and material pleasures.