Why do some people become arrogant about their knowledge?

In the Holy Quran, Allah emphasizes the importance of knowledge and wisdom, yet often reminds us to remain humble and avoid arrogance. The juxtaposition of knowledge and humility is a profound theme that runs throughout Islamic teachings, underscoring the character and disposition that believers must embody in their pursuit of understanding and enlightenment. Arrogance stemming from knowledge represents a dual-edged sword, potentially leading individuals astray from the straight path ordained by Allah. In Surah Luqman, verse 18, Allah elucidates this requirement for humility when He states: "And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people." This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of treating others with dignity and respect, regardless of one's intellectual accomplishments or educational background. Knowledge, in the Islamic perspective, is viewed as a divine endowment; it is a gift that is not conferred upon everyone. As such, believers are called to express gratitude for the knowledge they possess and to continuously seek more. This pursuit of knowledge is not merely for the sake of personal advancement or social status; rather, it is an endeavor aimed at enriching one's understanding of the world and deepening one's relationship with Allah. Indeed, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 47, it states that knowledge should cultivate a closer connection to God, reminding us that wisdom invites humility, not arrogance, and prevents us from inflating our egos based on our intellectual achievements. The dangers of arrogance highlighted in the Quran cannot be overstated. Arrogance often leads to the misconception that one's own knowledge is superior while simultaneously fostering a disregard for others who may not have had the same opportunities for education or enlightenment. The Quran calls attention to the idea that knowledge should not be a tool for self-aggrandizement or superiority over others. Rather, it serves to foster a sense of community, respect, and understanding. Arrogance born from knowledge can douse the spiritual light within a person, leading them to forget the true essence of knowledge as a gift from God intended to be used for the betterment of humanity. The contemporary world presents numerous challenges regarding the attitude towards knowledge. Unfortunately, some individuals assume a stance of superiority over others based on their educational background or access to information. This is a spiritual ailment, and it is a type of arrogance that should be recognized and avoided. Such a mindset creates a barrier, inhibiting open communication and understanding between individuals. For this reason, the teachings of the Quran are especially relevant today. They remind us that no matter how learned we may be, we remain servants of God, bound by humility and compassion towards others. Faith and humility in knowledge are essential characteristics every human should strive for. The Quran contextualizes knowledge as a means to foster humility, love, and connection amongst individuals. It encourages learners to pursue knowledge but simultaneously instills a sense of responsibility: to share knowledge with others and to do so without arrogance or a sense of superiority. Rather than distancing oneself from others due to one's education, the true scholar is one who bridges gaps, enhances the understanding of those around them, and nurtures a collaborative atmosphere of wisdom and insight Furthermore, the Quran promotes a structured approach to acquiring knowledge. It encourages believers to learn not only from textbooks but also from the world around them, suggesting an experiential form of education that fosters humility. The learning process is depicted as a lifelong journey, filled with opportunities to grow and discover, underscoring the fact that everyone—regardless of their knowledge level—has something to contribute to the collective understanding of society. This leads to a deeply rooted principle in Islamic teaching: knowledge should produce action. True knowledge is not merely theoretical but must manifest itself in how one behaves towards others and interacts with the world. This productive action is fundamentally tied to the core Islamic values of compassion, respect, and integrity. When individuals allow the knowledge they acquire to inform their behaviors positively, they honor the sacred nature of that knowledge and, in turn, honor Allah. In conclusion, the lessons of humility and service in the pursuit of knowledge are central to the teachings of the Quran. As believers, we are urged to cherish the divine gift of knowledge while fostering an attitude of gratitude, humility, and respect towards others. In navigating the complexities of today’s fast-paced information age, we must remain vigilant about the potential for arrogance to creep in, reminding ourselves that true wisdom lies in recognizing both the limits of our knowledge and the inherent value of others. By embodying these principles, we can cultivate a scholarly approach that enriches not only our lives but the lives of those around us, fully realizing the profound teachings of the Holy Quran.