Islamic vs. Secular Education

Now-a-days there are a lot of people who talk about the differences between a modern and Islamic Education. And it really surprises me as I don't believe there is any difference in Islamic and modern Education.

Education means to learn about something one has no prior knowledge of, for example, modern science is  defined as being a "systems of knowledge gained by systematic research and organized into general laws".

Humans are asked, on various occasions in the Quran, to research, to make some thorough investigations about the universe and to find the hidden truth in the things around us. God (Allah) Almighty has invited us to look around and observe things in order to solidify our belief in Him. We believe in Allah, however contemplation and seeking knowledge will solidify our belief in Him even more.

We are welcomed to observe, to feel and to understand the things that bring us closer to our Creator. It means that we are entitled to learn science as science is the systematic way to observing a fact or finding a fact for which we are asked to.

So where does this concept of "Islamic Education" verses "Modern Education" come from? In fact we have restricted ourselves to some part of Islam and preaching and categorized it as "Islamic Education". Islam is actually a complete code of life and contains all aspects of human knowledge that one can comprehend including, art, science, law, health, politics, education, economics and much more all found in the Holy Quran and from the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him. However, today, whenever we discuss politics or any other secular issue, we negate Islam as a separate idea. God says in the Quran:

"Mafhoom": Indeed The Messenger of Allah is the best example for you.

And we find that during the time of the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad, peace be upon him, initiating policies in places like Madina. Does it not prove that politics is a part of Islam?

Another example from the companions of the Prophet was that of the economic policies of Umar Ibn al- Khattab (The second Caliph of the Muslims) which, amazed the European economists. Is it not Islam?

During the battle of Badr, some of the prisoners that were captured and  were educated, were actually asked to teach the Muslims. Can anybody tell me what they taught to the Muslims, Islamic Virtues? What do you think?

May God Almighty guide us towards the right way and help us in our lives.

Imdad Ulhaq is a writer for IlmkiDunya.com, a website for students, and can be reached at