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The third duty of a teacher is that he should not withhold…

“The third duty of a teacher is that he should not withhold from his students any advice. After he finishes the outward sciences, he should teach them the inward sciences. He should tell them that the object of education is to gain nearness of God, not power or richness and that God created…” quote by Imam Al-Ghazali
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““The third duty of a teacher is that he should not withhold from his students any advice. After he finishes the outward sciences, he should teach them the inward sciences. He should tell them that the object of education is to gain nearness of God, not power or richness and that God created ambition as a means of perpetuating knowledge which is essential for these sciences.””

Imam Al-Ghazali

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Education should guide souls toward divine closeness, not worldly power; ambition serves knowledge, not selfish gain.

In simple terms: Teach inner wisdom, not just external facts.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize spiritual growth over material ambition.

Themes

education spirituality ethics

Mood

contemplative didactic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • religious instruction
  • personal development
  • community leadership

Key Concepts

Sufism philosophy of education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance external learning with inner growth?
  • What does “nearness of God” mean for you?
A Different Perspective

Worldly success can distract from true purpose.

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