quote:

The circles of knowledge after 'Ishaa are considered a good act and an act of obedience, but does not suffice one from praying the qiyam al-layl, but it is better than the qiyam al-layl. Seeking knowledge is better than the qiyam al-layl. The account of one seeking knowledge even if the qiyam al-layl prayer escapes him is better than praying the qiyam al-layl while remaining upon ignorance. The affair of the circles of knowledge is one that is great, and its benefits are vast. The rest of the voluntary acts do not equal it (i.e. seeking knowledge), but if it's possible for the person to combine between the two acts - that he attends the circles of knowledge or whatever is easy from this, and that he stands at night for prayer that which easy for him, even if its only three rak'aat or five rak'aat - then this is better, combining between two advantages, like the Prophet (salallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) used to do, and also like the companions (radiallaahu 'anhum ajma'een) used to do.