Question

What are 5 reasons Islam encouraged travel and exploration?

Answer 1

1) Prophet Muhammad's teachings, for example, speak largely on the importance of travel to truly be able to recognize and empathise with other cultures.

2) Muslim tradition is filled with examples of how their most important figures were avid travellers who were  transcendentally transformed by this activity. Notably, Sunni Muhaddith, Muhammad al-Bukhari and Musa's journeys are great examples of it.

3) Physical exploration of new environments enhances detachment from the material world, which massively facilitates spiritual growth.

4) Within travelling, there are plenty of in-between moments where we don't have a clear task at hand as we are on the move, and freed to be more present. This encourages many moments of pure contemplation, which are crucial in order to connect with God.

5) Getting away from the comforts of home is always an effective way to regain appreciation for all the aspects of everyday life we may take for granted.

Hope this helps out!

Answer 2

1. The prophet (Peace Be Upon Him). Prophet Muhammad, who encouraged travel, for him, this was an essential way to seek knowledge.
2. Tradition: some of the most famous travellers are musilms, for example, the most travelled man Ibn Battuta who travelled for 30 years. Also, musilm scholars often cover great distances to acquire knowledge.
3. Spirituality: Travel brings spirituality, helps to detach from the material world (dunya). It's a part of the 'soul's training'.
4. Pilgrimage of Hajj: one of the five fundamental pillars of the faith. This requires musilms to travel to Makkah.
5. Get to know God: Travel helps to get to know and love God better, travel makes the familiar unfamiliar, that let travelers appreciate God's creations better.