Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya on Knowledge

The renowned theologian and jurist Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyha (d.1350) wrote numerous titles, many of which are still popular today. Amongst these is Key to the Blissful Abode (Mifta' dar al-sa'ada). The present work is an abridgement of the first volume of Key to the Blissful Abode. In it, Ibn Qayyim focuses on the importance of knowledge and willpower, as means through which a person may attain Paradise. Willpower is the door and knowledge - in particular knowledge which pertains to God and His Attributes, the Qur'an and the example of the Prophet - is the key. Ibn Qayyim discusses the virtues and benefits of knowledge over wealth and worldly matters; the path to it; the importance of pursuing knowledge and applying it in order to achieve guidance from God and protect oneself from doubts; the superiority of the scholar over the worshipper; the necessity of using knowledge and willpower as the bases for all actions if one is to achieve spiritual bliss. Ibn Qayyim then concludes by discussing the importance of contemplation and reflection in order to attain further knowledge and guidance.