To what extent does Islam concern itself with knowledge?

Allah created man and provided him with the tools of knowledge. The first verse revealed from the Qur’an commanded reading, and in Islam, knowledge precedes action. Allah warned against speaking without knowledge and elevated the status of scholars, making them those who fear Allah. Islam encourages the pursuit of knowledge and made it an obligation. The superiority of a scholar over a worshipper is like the superiority of the moon over all other planets. Scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets, and seeking knowledge is a path to Paradise. The best knowledge is that of Sharia, followed by medicine and other beneficial sciences. Knowledge is of no good if it is not followed by action. The Ummah is in need of scholars, and whoever conceals knowledge deserves condemnation. A scholar receives a great reward, and his recompense does not cease with his death. Spreading knowledge brings rewards to the one who spreads it from those who follow him. Understanding religion (fiqh) is among the best of good qualities, and learning and teaching the Qur’an are among the best deeds.