Once, a young apprentice named Maya wanted to become a master chef. She spent years reading cookbooks, learning about ingredients, cooking techniques, and the science behind flavours. Her knowledge was vast, and she could explain every recipe in detail. However, when she first stepped into the kitchen, Maya struggled to execute the dishes perfectly. Her hands were unsteady, and her timing was often off. Realising that knowledge alone wasn’t enough, Maya began practising daily. She honed her knife skills, learned to control heat precisely, and developed a sense of timing through repetition. Over time, her skills caught up with her knowledge, and she became confident in both understanding and doing. Eventually, Maya’s dishes were technically perfect and creatively inspired, blending her deep knowledge with refined skills.
This story shows that while knowledge provides the foundation, skills bring that knowledge to life. Without skills, knowledge remains theoretical; without knowledge, skills may lack direction. Together, they empower individuals to achieve mastery and success.
From the perspective of science, knowledge is generally understood as a justified and evidence-based understanding of the world, developed through observation, experimentation, and reasoning. It is not merely information or belief, but rather something that is supported by empirical evidence and logical analysis.
One commonly cited definition comes from the field of epistemology, the study of knowledge, which also influences scientific thought. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, knowledge is defined as “facts, information, and skills acquired through experience or education; the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject.” This definition highlights that scientific knowledge includes both theoretical concepts and practical applications that are gained and verified through systematic methods.
In the scientific method, knowledge is built through hypotheses, experiments, data collection, and analysis. It is always open to revision if new evidence emerges. This self-correcting nature is one of the strengths of scientific knowledge. As philosopher Karl Popper emphasised, in science, no theory is ever absolutely proven — rather, it is tested and refined over time.
Furthermore, knowledge in science is considered provisional and objective, meaning that it must be based on observable phenomena and repeatable results, rather than personal opinion or unverifiable claims. It aims to explain how and why things work in the natural world, using tools such as mathematics, logic, and controlled experiments.
In short, from the scientific perspective, knowledge is the accumulation of reliable and testable explanations about reality, grounded in observation and reason. It is always evolving, refined by ongoing discovery and critical thinking.
From the perspective of Sunni Islam, knowledge (ʿilm) is considered a divine gift and a central part of human purpose. It is not limited to intellectual understanding but encompasses both spiritual and practical dimensions. Knowledge in Islam is seen as a light (nūr) from Allah that guides the believer toward truth, righteousness, and ultimately, closeness to the Creator.
A commonly referenced definition comes from classical Islamic scholars. For example, Imam al-Ghazali, one of the most influential scholars in Sunni Islam, defines knowledge in his book Iḥyāʾ ʿUlūm al-Dīn (The Revival of the Religious Sciences) as: “Knowledge is the comprehension by the soul of the meanings of things as they are.”
This definition reflects the belief that true knowledge allows one to see reality as Allah intended, beyond mere appearances or opinions. In Sunni theology, knowledge is typically categorised into two main types:
Religious knowledge, which includes the knowledge of the Qur’an, Hadith, Fiqh (Islamic law), and Aqeedah (creed), and is considered the most noble and essential.
Worldly or rational knowledge, such as medicine, mathematics, or engineering, is also respected, especially when it serves humanity and is pursued with good intentions. The Qur’an itself highlights the value of knowledge. In Surah Al-Mujadila (58:11), Allah says, “Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees...”
This verse shows that knowledge is a source of elevation in rank and dignity in the sight of Allah.
Moreover, the Prophet(ﷺ) said: “Whoever takes a path in search of knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim)
This shows that knowledge is not only a means to understand the world but also a path to spiritual salvation. It must be sought with sincerity, humility, and the intention of pleasing Allah.
So, from the Sunni Islamic perspective, knowledge is a sacred trust that enables one to fulfil their role as a servant and vicegerent of Allah on earth. It is both an intellectual pursuit and a spiritual journey, rooted in revelation, reason, and responsible action.
From the perspective of science, skills are generally understood as the ability to perform tasks or activities with a certain level of competence, often as a result of learning, training, and practice. Skills involve the application of knowledge, and they can be both physical and mental in nature.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), a skill is defined as: “The ability to perform a task with competence, often as a result of training, practice, or experience.” (APA Dictionary of Psychology).
This definition emphasises that skills are not innate but are developed through repetition, feedback, and purposeful effort.
Scientific studies in fields such as cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and education show that skills involve both procedural memory (knowing how to do something) and motor or cognitive functions, depending on the nature of the skill. For example, learning to ride a bicycle involves coordination and muscle memory, while learning to solve math problems involves logic, analysis, and mental processing. Skills are commonly divided into two broad categories:
- Hard skills, which are technical and measurable—like typing, coding, or operating machinery.
- Soft skills, which are interpersonal and behavioural—such as communication, leadership, and emotional regulation.
Neuroscience also supports the idea that skill development involves the rewiring of neural pathways through a process known as neuroplasticity. The more a skill is practised, the more efficient the brain becomes at performing it, which is why repetition and consistency are key to mastering any skill.
From a scientific perspective, a skill is the learned capacity to carry out tasks effectively and consistently. It arises through interaction between cognitive processes, physical practice, and environmental experience, and it reflects both mental and behavioural adaptation.
From the perspective of Islam, skills are seen as God-given capacities that human beings are encouraged to develop, refine, and use in service to Allah and His creation. While the Islamic tradition does not always define "skills" with the same technical language used in modern psychology or education, it places great emphasis on practical competence, ethical behavior, and beneficial action as essential parts of faith and human responsibility.
A useful definition comes from Islamic scholars who interpret skills as part of fiqh al-ʿamaliyyah (practical understanding) and maharah (proficiency). For example, in Islamic educational literature, such as in Imam al-Ghazali’s Iḥyā ‘Ulūm al-Dīn, skills are associated with ḥusn al-ṣanʿa — excellence in craftsmanship — and are praised when they serve a righteous purpose. While he may not define skills in modern terms, al-Ghazali discusses the importance of mastering both religious and worldly crafts, stating that, “Work is a means of sustenance and worship, and the best among you are those who benefit others.”
In Islam, skills are not viewed as merely functional abilities, but as a means to fulfil one's role as a khalīfah (steward) on earth. The Qur’an surah Al-Anbiya' (21):80 refers to the skilled craftsmanship of Prophet Dawud (David), "And We taught him the making of coats of armour to protect you in your wars. Will you then be grateful?”
This verse shows that practical skills—in this case, metalwork — are not only useful but also divinely inspired and valued when they contribute to human welfare.
Furthermore, the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Allah loves when any one of you does something, that he does it with excellence (iḥsān).”
This hadith implies that developing one's skills and striving for excellence in work, service, or worship is not only commendable but beloved by Allah [This hadith is widely quoted in Islamic teachings to emphasise the importance of doing things with care, precision, and sincerity. Reported by al-Bayhaqi in Shuʿab al-ʾĪmān (The Branches of Faith). The hadith has some weakness in its chain of transmission, according to hadith scholars. Shaykh al-Albani graded this hadith as Ḍaʿīf (weak); other scholars, such as Ibn Hibban, included a version of it in his Ṣaḥīḥ, which gives the hadith some supporting strength. Despite the weakness, many scholars regard the meaning of the hadith as sound and in line with Islamic values, particularly given the Qur’anic concept of iḥsān (doing things with excellence and beauty].
Skills alone can lead to success in situations where practical ability and hands-on expertise are the primary requirements, even if formal knowledge is limited. For example, in many trades or crafts, such as carpentry, cooking, or driving, having well-developed skills allows an individual to perform tasks efficiently and produce high-quality results. In these cases, the ability to execute specific actions competently often outweighs the need for extensive theoretical knowledge. Additionally, skills can bring success in environments that value experience and adaptability over formal education. For instance, a person who has honed their communication or negotiation skills through real-world practice may excel in sales or customer service roles, even without deep academic knowledge of the field. Similarly, athletes or artists rely heavily on their physical or creative skills to achieve success, where natural talent combined with consistent practice can lead to outstanding performance.
However, it is important to recognise that while skills alone can bring success in certain contexts, combining them with relevant knowledge often enhances long-term growth and the ability to handle more complex challenges. Nonetheless, in situations that demand immediate, practical action and where results are judged by performance rather than theory, skills alone can be sufficient to achieve success.
There are several industries where skills are often more crucial than knowledge, particularly when practical ability, hands-on experience, and the capacity to execute tasks efficiently are the primary requirements for success. For example, in manufacturing, the ability to consistently perform processes such as assembling, operating machinery, or maintaining equipment to a high standard is essential. While understanding the theory behind a process is helpful, it is the skill to execute it quickly, safely, and accurately that determines productivity and quality in the workplace.
Similarly, in the technology sector, especially in roles like software development or IT support, employers increasingly prioritise candidates who can demonstrate practical skills, such as coding, troubleshooting, or deploying systems, over those who only possess theoretical knowledge. The fast-paced evolution of technology means that hands-on experience and the ability to adapt to new tools and methods are highly valued. Many tech jobs now require workers to show proficiency in using specific technologies and solving real-world problems, rather than just having academic knowledge about them.
Other examples include sales, customer service, and creative fields like design or the culinary arts, where interpersonal, communication, or technical skills can compensate for gaps in formal knowledge. For instance, a salesperson with excellent persuasion and relationship-building skills may outperform someone with deeper product knowledge but weaker communication abilities.
So, while knowledge provides a valuable foundation, many industries rely on skills as the key driver of performance and success, especially in roles where results are measured by practical output and the ability to respond effectively to real-world demands.
Professionals can balance knowledge and skills effectively by integrating continuous learning with practical experience, ensuring that theoretical understanding is consistently applied and refined through real-world practice. Knowledge provides the foundation for understanding concepts, processes, and industry trends, while skills translate that understanding into action and results. By seeking out opportunities for both formal education and hands-on training, professionals can bridge the gap between knowing what to do and being able to do it well.
In the workplace, this balance is often achieved by combining ongoing education—such as workshops, courses, and industry research—with on-the-job experiences that develop practical abilities. For example, a professional might study new technologies or management theories and then apply them in projects or daily tasks, learning from both successes and setbacks. This approach not only enhances competence but also adaptability, as professionals become better equipped to handle new challenges and changing environments.
Furthermore, professionals who prioritise both knowledge and skills tend to experience more sustainable career growth. Focusing solely on one at the expense of the other can lead to stagnation or missed opportunities. For instance, relying only on skills without updating knowledge may result in outdated practices, while knowing without practical skills can limit effectiveness in real situations. The most successful individuals and teams are those who recognise the value of both and make deliberate efforts to develop each area, often through mentorship, collaboration, and reflective practice.
Balancing knowledge and skills is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process that requires self-awareness, a willingness to learn, and the courage to apply new insights. This dynamic balance not only supports individual career advancement but also contributes to the overall effectiveness and innovation of organisations.
Skills can compensate for a lack of knowledge in the workplace by enabling individuals to leverage practical abilities such as problem-solving, integration, and people skills to navigate unfamiliar situations and accomplish tasks effectively. For instance, when employees or leaders lack specific technical knowledge or experience, they can draw on strong problem-solving skills to break down complex challenges, seek out information, and devise workable solutions. Integration skills allow them to connect various resources and expertise within a team, ensuring that gaps in their own knowledge are supplemented by the strengths of others. People skills, such as effective communication and collaboration, help them build relationships and coordinate with colleagues who possess the needed knowledge, thereby facilitating decision-making and project completion.
Moreover, these compensating skills are not only immediately useful but also teachable, making it possible for organisations to develop them through targeted training and professional development programs. As a result, employees who excel in these areas can still perform at a high level, even when they do not possess all the technical or domain-specific knowledge required for a particular role. This approach increases organisational adaptability and helps teams succeed in dynamic or resource-constrained environments, where it is not always possible to have every qualification or piece of knowledge on hand.
Skills can develop to some extent without a strong foundation of knowledge, especially when they involve basic or repetitive tasks that rely heavily on practice and muscle memory. For example, someone might learn to perform manual labour or operate certain machinery through hands-on experience and repetition, even if they do not fully understand the underlying principles or theories behind the work. In such cases, the skill is built through doing rather than studying, and the individual becomes proficient by practising the task regularly.
However, for more complex or advanced skills, a strong foundation of knowledge is usually necessary to develop them effectively and safely. Knowledge provides the context, reasoning, and understanding that guide how skills are applied and adapted to different situations. Without this foundation, skills may be limited to routine actions and may not be flexible or efficient when faced with new challenges. For instance, a person might learn to code by copying examples without understanding programming concepts, but their ability to solve unique problems or write efficient code will be limited without deeper knowledge.
While some skills can be developed through practice alone, combining skills with a solid base of knowledge leads to greater competence, adaptability, and long-term success. Knowledge enriches skills by providing the insight needed to apply them thoughtfully and creatively across a range of situations.
What is the benefit if we know that knowledge and skills cannot be taken away by others? Knowing that knowledge and skills cannot be taken away by others brings a profound sense of security and empowerment. This understanding means that, no matter what external circumstances you face—whether you lose material possessions, encounter setbacks, or face adversity—your internal wealth remains intact. Knowledge and skills are enduring assets that stay with you throughout your life, allowing you to adapt, rebuild, and seize new opportunities even after experiencing loss or hardship.
This realisation fosters confidence and independence, as you know that your ability to solve problems, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to your community is something no one can strip away. It also encourages continuous self-improvement, since investing in your own learning and abilities yields lifelong benefits that are immune to theft or misfortune. Ultimately, understanding the inviolability of knowledge and skills inspires resilience, motivates personal growth, and assures you that your true value lies in what you have cultivated within yourself, not in what you possess externally.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." This proverb emphasises that inner qualities, such as knowledge, skills, character, and wisdom, hold far greater importance than external wealth or circumstances. It reminds us that the strength and value we cultivate inside ourselves define who we truly are.
Our next inner assets are faith and personal beliefs. Both are deeply rooted in a person’s heart and mind. While external forces can challenge or oppress someone’s faith, they cannot forcibly remove it unless the person willingly lets go of their convictions.
"Faith" is a deep and unwavering trust in something or someone, often without the need for physical evidence. It is commonly associated with spirituality or religion, where individuals place their trust in a higher power, divine guidance, or a sacred truth. However, faith can also apply more broadly to life—such as having faith in a better future, in justice, or the inherent goodness of people. What makes faith powerful is its resilience; even when external circumstances change or fall apart, faith can remain steady inside a person’s heart. It is not always rational or provable, but it brings strength, comfort, and direction to those who hold it.
"Belief" refers to the acceptance that something is true or exists, especially without absolute proof. It is more intellectual than faith, though the two are often related. A belief can be about facts, values, experiences, or worldviews—for example, someone might believe that hard work leads to success, or that kindness changes lives. Beliefs are shaped by a person’s upbringing, environment, education, and personal reflections. Unlike faith, which is usually more emotional and spiritual, belief often involves reasoning, evidence, or personal conviction—but not necessarily proof.
While belief is often seen as a mental acceptance of something being true, faith goes further—it's about a deep trust or confidence in that truth, especially when there's no visible proof. For example, you might believe that the sun will rise tomorrow because it always has, but you have faith that no matter how dark today seems, light will eventually return.
In Man’s Search for Meaning (1959, Beacon Press), Viktor Emil Frankl, an Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, explores how those who had faith and a deep sense of purpose endured immense suffering with resilience, even in the worst conditions—such as the Nazi concentration camps.
Frankl argues that suffering itself does not destroy a person—what truly matters is how they perceive and respond to it. He famously states, “Those who have a ‘why’ to live can bear almost any ‘how.’”
This means that prisoners who believed their suffering had a higher meaning—whether faith in God, love for family, or the hope of rebuilding a better future—were more likely to endure hardships.
Even when stripped of everything—freedom, dignity, health—Frankl emphasizes that one thing can never be taken away, “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”
This inner freedom allowed some prisoners to maintain their dignity and spiritual resilience despite extreme suffering.
Frankl describes how deeply religious prisoners relied on faith in God and an afterlife to find hope. For example, some inmates recited prayers, imagined divine justice, or saw suffering as a test of endurance and spiritual growth. “In spite of all the enforced physical and mental primitiveness of the life in a concentration camp, it was possible for spiritual life to deepen.”
This spiritual depth helped individuals endure unimaginable pain with resilience.
Frankl writes that thinking about loved ones—whether alive or dead—helped many prisoners stay mentally strong. Even without knowing their fate, prisoners clung to the memory of love, which gave them the strength to carry on. “The salvation of man is through love and in love.”
For some, faith in reuniting with family or fulfilling a purpose beyond the camps kept them from giving up.
According to Man’s Search for Meaning, people who survived extreme suffering often did so because they had a strong belief in meaning beyond suffering, faith that life has a purpose, even in pain; spiritual strength to withstand loss; love for others as a guiding light.
Faith is deeply personal. While people may face persecution, oppression, or hardship, their belief system is an internal choice. Faith provides purpose, even in suffering. True belief withstands external pressure—people may be forced into silence, but belief itself cannot be erased. Faith fuels resilience. Those with strong faith endure hardship with patience, knowing their suffering has meaning.
As an early follower of Islam, Bilal ibn Rabah (radhiyallahu 'anhu) was tortured by his slave master to renounce his belief in Allah. He endured extreme pain but continued to say “Ahad, Ahad” (Allah is One). His persecutors could not take his faith away from his heart.
Ovid's Metamorphoses describes Pygmalion, a sculptor who believes in ideal beauty and purity. His devotion leads the gods to breathe life into his statue, showing that unwavering belief can shape reality.
Ut rediit, simulacra suae petit ille puellae,
[When he returned, he sought his beloved statue,]
incumbensque toro dedit oscula: visa tepere est.
[laying upon the couch, he kissed her: she seemed warm.]
Admovet os rursus, temptat quoque bracchia; temptatum
[He kissed her again, and touched her arms; at his touch,]
mollescit ebur, positoque rigore subsidit digitis.
[the ivory softened, its stiffness melting beneath his fingers]
Faith and belief can transform reality—Pygmalion believed that his statue could come to life, and his prayer was granted by Venus. The conviction in a person's heart cannot be taken away; instead, it can inspire great change.
