The loss of a single Alim is likened to the loss of the entire world. Among the signs of Qiyamah is that knowledge of Deen will be eroded from the world through the death of Ulama.

Hazrat Anas (RA) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Certainly the example of the Ulama in the world is like the example of the stars through which guidance is obtained in the darkness of the land and sea. When the stars disappear, it is very likely that the rightly guided can be misled from the right path.” (At Targheeb Wat Tarheeb)

Hazrat Abu Umamah (RA) reports that on one occasion mention was made of two people before Rasulullah r; one was an Aabid (one who is engrossed in worship) and the other was an Aalim (one engaged in learning and imparting Islamic knowledge).

Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “The virtue (and rank) of an Aalim over an Aabid is like my virtue (and rank) over the lowest amongst you.”

Thereafter Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Indeed Allah Ta’ala (showers His mercy), and the angels of Allah Ta’ala and all those in the heavens and the earth continue to make dua for the one who imparts good (Deeni education) to the people, to the extent that even the ant in its hole and the fish (in the ocean) make dua (for him).” (At Targheeb Wat Tarheeb)

To show love, respect and honour to our Ulama and to benefit from their knowledge is a means of drawing great blessings in our life.