The Nature of Knowledge according to the Quran and Traditions

The nature of knowledge in the Quranic verses is not in contravention with the one in the traditions. In fact, they are in such complete harmony that no variation can be observed between them. In respect of the nature of knowledge in the Quran and tradition, it has been said that knowledge is nothing but awareness, cognition, belief and truth as opposed to ignorance, doubt, speculation, and falsehood. The Quran and traditions have said in regards to the nature of real knowledge that knowledge is light achieved through servitude. This knowledge is the very divine blessing and divine knowledge granted to some people by Allah through revelation and inspiration. According to the Quran and tradition, God is the source of existence and legislation, and that the value of knowledge depends largely on its subject, benefit and practice. Thus, those lacking knowledge and those who possess knowledge but do not practice have been reprimanded and considered as deformed creatures.