Question: Is it necessary in the beginning of my seeking of knowledge that I memorize the Three Fundamental Principles and Kitab at-Tawheed first or is it sufficient I just read them?
Answer: “It is necessary that the teacher know this Aqeedah and these books. So the first thing is to join a teacher who knows these books and is able to explain them and clarify them. Then memorize them and recite them to him. And you should read their explanations also until [the material] becomes firm in your mind and memory. This is not for the worldly life or for a salary or for a compensation. Rather this is for what is in front of you of danger which you will not escape from except by the Tawfeeq of Allah, then your correct belief. In front of you is questioning. It is not your teacher who will ask you. You will be asked by the Angels, so prepare for this”
[Kutub al-‘Aqeedah wa-Manhajiyyah al-Istifaadah minhaa (pg. 18)]
Translated by
Faisal bin Abdul Qaadir bin Hassan
Abu Sulaymaan
