The balance between seeking ʿilm and earning a living

Shaykh ʿUbayd al-Jābirī رحمه الله was asked:

“How can a person find the opportunity to acquire knowledge and become deeply rooted in it, along with obtaining provision and a livelihood. How is he able to combine between the two?”

The shaykh responded:

“He strikes a balance. He makes an effort to seek the permissible provision for himself and those he is responsible for. And it is not permissible for him to neglect them. And he strives to set aside a time to sit with the people of knowledge around him.

And from the examples from the people of character, who must be taken as role models; is what was done by ʿUmar رضي الله عنه. He and his neighbour used to take turns sitting with the Messenger of Allāh ﷺ.

ʿUmar would sit with him one day and then bring the information of the Nabī ﷺ to his neighbour. Then his neighbour would go the next day and bring the information of the Nabī ﷺ to ʿUmar; Allāh be pleased with him and his neighbour.

Thus if you are able to do that, do so. And if you are not able, then do what you are able to even if it is one hour during the week, or two hours. Strike a balance, and strive to put aside for yourself and those who you are responsible for that which free you from needing the sustenance from the people.”

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