In the name of Allah, The Entirely Merciful, The Especially Merciful.

All types of perfect and true praises belong to Allah alone, The Lord of the Worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and all his family and companions.

Islam emphasizes the great importance of knowledge and education. When the Quran began to be revealed, the first word of its first verse was 'Iqra' that is, read. The Quran stresses the importance of reading, studying, reflecting and investigating.There are many benefits of reading in Islam. Education, civilization and reciprocal partnerships rest on the ability to read. It all started with the word, 'read!'

Reading is one of the important means of gaining different kinds of knowledge and of benefitting from the achievements and experiences of others, earlier and later scholars. It is something vital which the person who wants to learn can hardly do without. It is an essential need which is hardly less important that food and drink. Individuals – let alone cultures and civilizations – cannot advance without reading, for reading brings minds to life, enlightens hearts and sets thinking straight.

A book is one of the best tools for training and upbringing. A good book always has a salutary effect on the mind of a reader. It will elevate spirit and thoughts. It will augment the store of knowledge. Books help in correcting moral ineptitude.

Particularly in these days of mechanical existence, when people have hardly any time to attend meetings and symposia, the best source of acquiring religious and general knowledge is reding books that can be browsed whenever a person finds some time to spare. It is possible that the reading books might have a deeper impact on the minds of the readers than the other sources of acquiring knowledge.

It was narrated from Anas bin Malik radhiallahu anhu that the Messenger of Allah may Allah bless him and grant him peace said:

"Seeking knowledge is a duty upon every Muslim."

Prophet Muhammad peace and blessings be upon him encouraged his followers to broaden their horizons by seeking knowledge – even to the depths of China (Bukhari).

Nowadays, reading material is of abundance and allows the plight for knowledge to be easier than ever. Modern scholars have done a scientific research on the impacts of reading books and the studies show: improve your brain, reduce stress, improve memory, improve imagination, develop critical thinking skills, build vocabulary, improve writing skill, improve communication skill, improve focus and concentration, motivate and encourage, improve health, build self-esteem, help sleep better, make smarter...

The Islam has exhorted its followers to pursue the path of learning from the cradle to the grave. It is the duty of the parents to send their children to schools for acquiring knowledge of reading and writing. Islam has very clear directions in this regard for the followers of the faith.

Praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and all his family and companions.

By: Nizomiddin Muhammad