wisdom, but the warning does not avail»¹. So, what could be above the eloquence of the Noble Quran? «Indeed, this Quran guides to that which is most upright and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward»². So what guidance is more upright than the science of the Quran? And He said: «We have not neglected in the Register a thing»³. The Book gathered all things. You may travel to the furthest lands of India to meet a single wise man, yet you may meet a large nation of people who are rabble and dregs, like livestock⁴ who do not perceive nor understand. If you recognize a gnostic, religious, wise man, you find him fleeing from the people, wandering in the wildernesses, solitary in himself; or a man who, if he could hide, would hide in his house. The path of him who knows Allah — Exalted Glory — and is guided to the path of his maturity is to be content with the little of the world and not to pursue the much; for in it is his sufficiency until a time."⁵

The Hijazi said: "I have chosen, my master, to stay in your presence and seek blessing by looking at your auspicious face. If you see fit to assist me with acceptance and place me in the position of this deceased one, you would be rewarded and beneficent." The sheikh said: "I have answered your desire. May Allah grant you success, direct you, and keep you firm with the firm word; indeed He is Near, Answering. So be trusting in Allah with good trust, and purify your intention, for you have reached above your wish." He [Abu al-Tahir] said: Then the sheikh delivered the youth's clothes and his position to the Hijazi. The Hijazi leapt toward him to kiss his hands and feet, but he prevented him. Then he turned to me and asked: "What do you choose?"