Spending time with one's family while studying

Q: Seeking knowledge vs time with family.

I have two semesters left of a 4 year Arabic and Islamic studies program and I am also a 4th year student of the alim course program. I am in my early 30’s married and kids and also full time job. I have been a seeker of knowledge for a few years now and have completed certain ijazas in the past and now attempting to complete the Alim course InshaAllah.

My wife has always supported me, but sometimes I see (feel) that she might be somewhat fed up with me also being busy. I spend a significant amount of time in books research and still with a full time job, also assist a local masjid that is without an imam at times.

I do believe spending valuable time with my family, but I also am fully aware that between continuous studies and full time work (which is needed to support my family) my available time is always at minimal.

Lately a thought has creeped into my head that I should stop my studies and focus on family. Im not unsure if these are whispers of the shaytan or just me being over whelmed. I am thankful for the achievements Allâh swt has allowed for me but on the other hand I feel guilty because the majority of my time is being filtered elsewhere. This is just me venting and asking for advice.

How do I balance? Am I doing too much ?

A: Give more quality time to your family and you could space out your studies over several years.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

 

Answered by:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

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