On the third day of the Spiritual Retreat (Shahr-e-Itikaf), President of Minhaj-ul-Quran International, Professor Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, delivered an insightful speech on the topic of "Etiquettes of Life" during the second training session.

He emphasized that knowledge is a prerequisite for the successful completion of any action. Once the direction of knowledge is set correctly, all other aspects of life naturally align. He said that unlike other civilizations that are based on race, language, tribe, or region, Islam is founded on knowledge and piety. The one who attains excellence in these two aspects is truly superior.

Professor Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, elaborating on the virtues of knowledge in the light of the Qur'an and Hadith, stated that:

• Allah has elevated the ranks of the people of knowledge.
• The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "Whoever is granted knowledge of the Qur'an and Hadith, Allah has enriched him."
• A person who sets out in search of knowledge remains in the path of Allah until he returns.

Dr. Hussain stressed that Islam measures honor and superiority based on knowledge and piety, not on material status or family heritage. If someone from a humble background excels in knowledge, he deserves leadership in an Islamic society. He said that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) appointed Sayyiduna Anas bin Malik, a companion known for his asceticism, as an Imam (leader in prayer)—a clear indication that in Islam, leadership is based on knowledge and piety, not lineage or wealth.

He further advised that a true Muslim should never suffer from an inferiority complex. A knowledgeable person is neither arrogant nor insecure. The truly great are those who excel in knowledge and piety. Even lineage holds significance only when accompanied by righteous deeds.

Professor Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri emphasized the importance of respecting knowledge and scholars. Where knowledge is honored, scholars will also be respected. Respecting what is being learned and honoring the teacher is essential. He reminded the audience that those who truly fear Allah are those who possess knowledge, as the light of divine consciousness comes from knowledge. He advised seekers of knowledge to always keep their intentions pure. "Whomever Allah wills good for, He grants them an understanding of the religion." A true ascetic does not turn knowledge into a means of livelihood or sell it for worldly gains. He warned that those who commercialize religion invite divine wrath upon themselves.

In his concluding remarks, he urged the participants to practice what they learn. He said if one begins to feel pride in their knowledge, they should recognize it as a deception of Satan, for claiming knowledge leads to arrogance, and arrogance is poison for a spiritual seeker. A true ascetic constantly focuses on self-improvement and, upon receiving advice, immediately reflects inwardly and corrects their shortcomings. He said, "Whoever seeks knowledge with sincerity, Allah makes the path to paradise easy for them. The starting point of an ascetic's journey is the endpoint of an ordinary scholar, for an ascetic does not merely acquire knowledge but integrates it into their life. True knowledge is the one that manifests in actions."

He concluded with a supplication:

"May Allah illuminate us with the light of knowledge and make it a source of salvation for us. Ameen!"

These were some essential etiquettes for teachers, students, and seekers of knowledge on their path to learning.