In today’s world, education is often reduced to diplomas, careers, and consumerism. But as Muslims, we know there is a deeper question that has been debated for generations:
What are we really missing?
Is it religion? Is it science?
Is it a hybrid model of both?
The truth is that the real essence we are missing lies deeper than these categories. Whatever branch of knowledge we pursue — science, law, medicine, or business — its ultimate purpose must be service to Allah (subḥānahu wa taʿālā).
When education is pursued with that intention, it transforms. It is no longer about materialism or chasing careers for status. It becomes a path to:
- Improve ourselves as individuals
- Serve our families and communities
- Benefit society and humanity at large
The real purpose of education is not just to make a living — but to make us better people. If I become a better person, then whether I choose engineering, medicine, law, or any other field, I will carry moral excellence into that field. My knowledge will not be used for exploitation, but for service.
As Khalid Baig reminds us:
“The first purpose of our education system must be to produce qualified citizens and leaders for the Islamic society. Tarbiya, real Islamic moral training, must be an integral part of it. This must be the soul of our education — not a ceremonial husk.”
At North American Islamic School (NAIS), this is the foundation of our vision. We are building an education that reclaims its soul — where every subject, every class, and every lesson is tied to purpose, values, and the service of Allah.
Education with a soul is not about what we know, but about who we become.