Imaam Shaafi’ee (rahimahullaah):

”After fulfilling what Allaah has obligated (i.e. through knowledge that is Fard Ayn); there is (nothing) more virtuous than seeking knowledge (i.e. knowledge that is Fard Kifaayah) by way of which the slave seeks to get closer to Allaah.”

————————————————

Source: Aqeedah Ash-Shaafi’ee Page: 85

Explanation (Audio), see here:

http://al-badr.net/sub/228%5D