Towards Perfection of Worship Part Two

Continuing from the discussion First regarding the stages of achieving perfection of worship described by Imam Al-Ghazali in his book Minhajul Abidiin, then it will be continued with an explanation which is still in the development stage knowledge which is the first condition for achieving perfection in worship of Allah SWT.

Regarding this matter, Imam Al-Hasan Al-Basri (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “"Seek this knowledge without destroying your worship and do your worship without neglecting your knowledge."”

After all is clear, that a servant must possess both (knowledge and worship), there is no doubt that of the two, knowledge is the most important and should be prioritized. Because it is the foundation and guidance. Therefore, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “"Knowledge is the Imam for charity while charity is the Imam for knowledge."”

Knowledge is the basic principle that must be followed and prioritized over worship for 2 (two) reasons. First, In order for worship to be fruitful and remain intact, you must know who you are going to worship. After knowing Him, then you can worship Him. How will you worship Him whose name, attributes, and essence you do not yet know?

How can you worship Him if you don't yet know what is obligatory and what is impossible in His nature? You might believe something that is the exact opposite of what we seek refuge in Allah SWT. Therefore, your worship will not be valued at all.

This grave danger has been clearly explained in the explanation of good ending (the bookend of life) in chap the fear of Allah (fear) of the book IHi Ulumuddin. Then you must know the sharia obligations that have been ordered and are obliged to be carried out properly. You are also obliged to know the prohibitions that must be abandoned.

At this point, Imam al-Ghazali truly emphasizes the importance and obligation of a servant to acquire knowledge before engaging in worship. This means that before engaging in worship, knowledge must precede the ritual itself. Worship rituals not based on knowledge are feared to be futile.

Knowledge and worship are two main things that complement each other. Although knowledge is more important than worship. However, we should not neglect each other and damage each other. So, harmony between the two becomes the fruit of perfection in worshiping Allah SWT.

Continued in part 3 (three) of the next discussion...