not a proof against him. May He protect me from deviation and error, lead me toward knowledge and action, and grant me the intellect of the wise.

As for what follows: I returned to the city of Sinjar after the migration (al-hijra). I arrived at its waters and took shelter in the shade of Madyan; I hired myself out, completed the term, and fulfilled the count. I emerged, seeking the warmth of the fire of guidance from the Valley of Manifestation (Wādī al-Tajallī) within the wilderness of goodness. I heard the call from the Blessed Tree—which is exalted above the limits of "where" (al-ayn)—by means of the Caller and the inspiration of the Intellect within me.

One whose right is obligatory upon me, whose opinion of me is good, and with whom the bond of brotherhood is sound, has asked me to hasten to his matter by requesting that I compose for him a comprehensive epistle. This epistle shall encompass the sections of the five acts of worship legislated upon the tongue of the Speaker (al-Nāṭiq) in the eighth of his essential stations: Fasting, Prayer, Pilgrimage, Almsgiving, and Jihad.