Reward of learning worldly knowledge

27-11-2022 | IslamWeb

Question:

Assalamu Alaikum!Sheikh, I'm a 17 year old girl. I'm really interested in learning computer programming through halal option (i.e. online courses from home) and start Halal freelancing so that I can help my old father in earning because I don't have any brother. Recently, I saw some posts on social media which says Muslim women should not get worldly education because it will not help her in becoming a good wife and mother. After seeing that, I'm getting waswas everyday that I'm a bad Muslimah because I'm studying worldly knowledge and these waswas are making me insane. I know it is halal for women to study worldly knowledge. But my question is "Is it undesirable/makruh for a Muslim woman to study worldly knowledge which will not help her in becoming a good wife or mother?" , am I just wasting my time learning this? I'm sorry if this question sounds ridiculous. But I'm getting so many waswas regarding this. Kindly answer me.

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Answer:

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

It is not detestable for you to learn the (worldly) knowledge that you need, rather it is lawful and you will be rewarded for it if your intention is a good one, such as helping your father and benefiting yourself and Muslims. So, keep away from those whispers and do not pay any attention to them. As such, you should continue your study, taking into account to maintain a balance between the noble Sharee'ah knowledge and these (worldly) sciences, so that you would learn what benefits you in your religion and life alike.

Allah knows best.