The Value of Seeking a Master of Knowledge

The expression “or I will journey for ages” refers to a long period, not a specific time. According to ʿAllāmah Ṭabāṭabāʾī, the indefinite form of ḥuqub indicates an omitted description, meaning “a long period of time” (ḥuqban ṭawīlan).(22)

Moses the Interlocutor said that he would go in search of a master of knowledge to “the junction of the two seas” (majmaʿ al-baḥrayn), which is a specific place, and if he did not meet the master there, he would not give up his quest and would continue traveling for many years until he found him: “until I reach the junction of the two seas or journey for ages.” This statement shows the value of seeking a master of knowledge. It has been narrated from some mystics like Mr. Qāḍī (may God be pleased with him) that if someone spends half of their life seeking a divine master, it is worthwhile, because the presence of such a master brings peace and reveals what is behind the veil. From the verse under discussion, it can be understood that seeking beneficial knowledge is necessary, even if one is at the level of Moses the Interlocutor and must endure great hardship and fatigue in its pursuit.