What Does 'Ilm (Knowledge) Mean in Arabic?
عِلْم
'ilm
Root: ع ل م
'Ilm (Knowledge) Ilm means knowledge and learning — one of the most emphasized concepts in Islam. The first Quranic revelation was 'Iqra' (Read/Recite), signaling the centrality of knowledge. Allah is Al-Alim (the All-Knowing). The Quran asks rhetorically: 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' (39:9). Seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim, and scholars are exalted in the Islamic tradition.
The root of 'Ilm (Knowledge) ('ilm) appears 750 times in the Quran, reflecting its foundational importance in Islamic theology and practice.
Frequently Asked Questions about 'Ilm (Knowledge)
What does 'Ilm (Knowledge) mean in Islam?
Ilm means knowledge and learning — one of the most emphasized concepts in Islam. The first Quranic revelation was 'Iqra' (Read/Recite), signaling the centrality of knowledge. Allah is Al-Alim (the All-Knowing). The Quran asks rhetorically: 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?' (39:9). Seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim, and scholars are exalted in the Islamic tradition.
How many times is 'Ilm (Knowledge) mentioned in the Quran?
The root of the word 'Ilm (Knowledge) appears 750 times in the Quran, underscoring its central importance in Islamic theology and practice.
What is the Arabic root of 'Ilm (Knowledge)?
The Arabic root letters of 'Ilm (Knowledge) are ع ل م.