NAHJUL BALAGHA

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 SERMON 109

The best means by which seekers of nearness to Alláh, the Glorified, the Exalted, seek nearness, is the belief in Him and His Prophet, fighting in His cause, for it is the high pinnacle of Islam, and (to believe) in the kalimatu’l-’ikhlás (the expression of Divine purification) for it is just nature and the establishment of prayer for it is (the basis of) community, payment of zakát (Islamic tax) for it is a compulsory obligation, fasting for the month of Ramadán for it is the shield against chastisement, the performance of hajj of the House of Alláh (i. e . Ka`bah) and its `umrah (other than annual visit) for these two acts banish poverty and wash away sins, regard for kinship for it increases wealth and length of life, to giving alms secretly for it covers shortcomings, giving alms openly for it protects against a bad death and extending benefits (to people) for it saves from positions of disgrace.

About the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah

Go ahead with the remembrance of Alláh for it is the best remembrance, and long for that which He has promised to the pious, for His promise is the most true promise. Tread the course of the Prophet for it is the most distinguished course. Follow the sunnah of the Prophet for it is the most right of all behaviors. Learn the Qur'án for it is the fairest of discourses and understand it thoroughly for it is the best blossoming of hearts. Seek cure with its light for it is the cure for hearts. Recite it beautifully for it is the most beautiful narration. Certainly, a scholar who acts not according to his knowledge is like the off-headed ignorant who does not find relief from his ignorance, but on the learned the plea of Alláh is greater and grief more incumbent, and he is more blameworthy before Alláh.