The Fatimi Philosophy of Education

Allah the Almighty is the source of all knowledge and this knowledge is bestowed upon humankind through the auspices of divine revelation bestowed upon His prophets. In light of this fundamental Islamic belief, the Islamic-Fatimi philosophy of education endorses and promotes any knowledge that enhances one’s understanding of the Almighty, His revelation, His Creation and enables His servitude. Such knowledge is inherently ‘Fatimi’ in nature, irrespective of whichever field of study it may be classified. This philosophy is crystallised in Moulana al-Imam Ahmed al-Taqi’s ^SA following enjoinment:

It befits our brethren, may Allah Tʿāla give them strength, to not hate a single field of knowledge among all knowledge, shun a particular book among books, or bear prejudice towards a certain faith from among the faiths [of the world]. Indeed, our philosophy and our faith engulf all faiths and encompass all knowledge.

As early as the 11th century CE, the Fatimi dāʿī, Syedna Ahmed Hamiduddin al-Kirmani ^RA stated that understanding the Physical and Natural World constituted an essential aspect of worship. In essence, there is no incompatibility between the principles of Fatimi education and most modern disciplines of knowledge. Fatimi philosophy necessitates an integration of the temporal and spiritual aspects of human life. An education guided by this philosophy is not only temporally relevant and beneficial but also spiritually fulfilling and socially responsible. Any education devoid of spirituality and bereft of moral teachings is lacking. For this reason, education founded upon Fatimi philosophy comprises of the endeavour for academic excellence, meaningful practise, refinement of character and development of moral virtue. The attainment of these values results in Takāmul Shaksi: A Well-rounded Personality.