Knowledge was compared to light and ignorance to darkness by the ancients. Vid is the root of the word Vidya. Vid means light, Ya means what.  So, the meaning of the term ‘Vidya’ is that which gives light. From this term, it is evident that Brahma Vidya (knowledge of the Self) alone deserves to be known as Vidya, as it illumines our minds. Just as light and darkness cannot co-exist in the same place at the same time, Vidya and Avidya (ignorance) cannot be together. So, when you journey along the path of progress, you must purify your consciousness and illumine yourself with Brahma Vidya.

-Vidya Vahini, Chap 12.

Hands that serve are holier than lips that pray. - Baba