What is the importance of seeking (religious) knowledge in Islam?

Seeking knowledge, especially the knowledge needed to correctly practice one's faith, is described in Islamic tradition as an obligation upon every Muslim man and woman. The first word revealed in the Quran was 'Iqra' (Read/Recite), and numerous narrations elevate the status of a sincere seeker and teacher of beneficial knowledge. This includes learning correct belief, how to pray and worship properly, and sound moral conduct — not knowledge for its own sake or for showing off, but knowledge that is acted upon.