The Prophet collected every two martyrs of Uhud (in one grave) and then he would ask, "Which of them knew the Quran more?" And if one of them was pointed out for him as having more knowledge, he would put him first in the Lahd. The Prophet said, "I will be a witness on these on the Day of Resurrection." Then he ordered them to be buried with their blood on their bodies and he did not have them washed.
Source: Sahih Bukhari Volume 2, Book 23, Number 436.
At the time of Rasulullah (SAW), people were honoured according to the knowledge of Islam but sadly today, people are honoured according to the knowledge of this material world.
May Allah give us the ability to appreciate those who excell in the knowledge of Islam.
