Are the knowledge circles after 'Isha' considered standing in night prayer?

Question:
Our brother asks and says: Are the knowledge circles after 'Isha' considered standing in night prayer?

Answer:
The knowledge circles after 'Isha' are an act of devotion and obedience, but they do not replace standing in night prayer; however, they are better than standing in night prayer.

The presenter: Better?

The Shaykh: Seeking knowledge is better than standing in night prayer, because he is seeking knowledge. If he misses standing in night prayer, it is better for him than standing in night prayer while remaining in ignorance. So the knowledge circles are a great matter, and their benefits are immense; the other voluntary acts do not equal them. But if it is easy for him to combine both, he attends the knowledge circles, or whatever of them is possible, and stands in night prayer as much as is possible, even if it is three rak'ahs or five rak'ahs. This is better, combining the two benefits, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) did, and as the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) did. Yes.

The presenter: May Allah reward you with good.